Watch Casuals

Casuals is a documentary film that delves into the underground subculture of football fans known as the casuals. It explores the origins and evolution of this movement, which began in the 1970s and peaked in the 1980s, and examines the role that fashion played in shaping the identity of the casuals. The film features interviews with several key figures in the casuals scene, including Peter Hooton, the lead singer of the band The Farm, and Garry Bushell, a respected journalist and author. The documentary is narrated by Jonny Owen, who also serves as the film's producer.

The casuals were a loosely connected group of football fans who were known for their distinctive clothing and their love of violence. They were primarily associated with clubs in the northwest of England, such as Liverpool, Everton, and Manchester United, but their influence spread throughout the country and even beyond.

One of the key features of the casuals was their fashion sense. They were known for their expensive trainers, designer tracksuits, and other high-end clothing items. This was in stark contrast to the traditional image of football fans at the time, who were often depicted as being scruffy, working-class men.

The documentary explores the reasons behind this fashion obsession, and why it became such an important part of the casuals' identity. It also delves into the way that fashion and music were intertwined, and how these elements helped to create a unique subculture that was both rebellious and stylish.

The film features a range of archive footage, including interviews with key figures from the casuals scene, as well as footage of matches and the violence that often accompanied them. It also includes modern day interviews with former casuals, who reflect on their experiences and offer their thoughts on the legacy of the movement.

Throughout the documentary, the filmmakers attempt to dispel some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding the casuals. They acknowledge that there was a violent element to the subculture, but argue that this was not the defining feature of the movement. Rather, they argue, the casuals were a complex and multifaceted group, with their own set of values and beliefs.

The documentary also touches upon the impact that the casuals had on the wider cultural landscape. The movement influenced fashion and music, and helped to shape popular culture in the 1980s. It also had a lasting impact on the way that football fans are perceived in the UK and beyond.

Overall, Casuals is an informative and engaging documentary that sheds light on a little-known subculture. It provides a fascinating insight into the world of the casuals, and explores the complex relationship between football, fashion, and violence. For anyone with an interest in football, fashion, or subcultures, this film is definitely worth a watch.