Watch Absolute Beginners

Absolute Beginners is a 1986 musical drama set in London in the late 1950s. It is directed by Julien Temple and features a star-studded cast, including Patsy Kensit, Eddie O'Connell, and David Bowie. The movie is based on the novel by Colin MacInnes, and the screenplay is written by Richard Burridge. The story follows Colin (Eddie O'Connell), a young photographer who dreams of becoming a filmmaker. He is in love with Suzette (Patsy Kensit), a budding fashion designer, and their romance is intertwined with the rapidly changing cultural landscape of London. The film chronicles the rise of the youth culture and the birth of the rock and roll movement.

David Bowie plays Vendice Partners, a wealthy advertising mogul and the main antagonist of the movie. He has a deep-seated hatred for the youth culture and plans to exploit it for his own gain. His plan is to create a huge fashion and music extravaganza called the "Absolute Beginners Ball" to showcase his products and further his own agenda. However, his plan goes awry when a riot breaks out at the ball.

The film features several musical performances, including a memorable dance sequence during the opening credits featuring David Bowie's title track, "Absolute Beginners." The film also features other popular songs from the era, including "Teddy Boy" by Elvis Presley and "La Mer" by Charles Trenet.

As the story progresses, the audience is taken on a journey through the streets of 1950s London. The film captures the energy and vitality of the era, with its bright colors, flashy costumes, and vibrant music. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the grittiness and glamour of the city.

The movie does an excellent job of depicting the social and cultural changes that were taking place during that period. It shows the tensions between the older generation and the younger, as well as the struggles of the working-class youth to find their place in a changing world. The film portrays the racism, poverty, and police brutality that were prevalent at the time, with powerful and sometimes shocking scenes.

Overall, Absolute Beginners is a beautifully crafted movie that captures the magic and excitement of 1950s London. It is a love letter to the youth culture of the era and a tribute to the music and fashion that defined it. The performances are excellent, with Patsy Kensit and Eddie O'Connell delivering standout performances. David Bowie's appearance is brief but memorable, adding to the film's appeal. The movie is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of rock and roll, fashion, or youth culture. It is a nostalgic journey back in time and a celebration of the human spirit.