Watch Rude Boy

Rude Boy is a 1980 British film directed by Jack Hazan and David Mingay. The movie stars Ray Gange as himself, a young, working-class man who plays a roadie for The Clash, one of the most influential bands in punk music history. The film is set in 1978 when the punk movement is at its height in the UK. The story starts with Gange working at a dead-end job in a printing factory. He has no direction in life and spends his days playing football with his friends and going to punk concerts. One day, he meets a member of The Clash who offers him a job as a roadie. Gange jumps at the opportunity, and the rest of the film follows his experiences on the road with The Clash.

Throughout the film, Gange is torn between his loyalty to his working-class roots and his newfound loyalty to The Clash, who are outspoken about issues such as racism, poverty, and police brutality. As he tours with the band, Gange begins to see the world in a new light and becomes more politically aware.

The film also features interviews with band members Joe Strummer and Mick Jones, who offer their own perspectives on their music, politics, and the punk movement. Strummer, in particular, emerges as a strong voice in the film, expressing his frustration with the state of British society and his belief that music can be a vehicle for social change.

One of the most interesting aspects of Rude Boy is its blend of documentary and fiction. While Gange is playing a fictionalized version of himself, the film also incorporates concert footage and behind-the-scenes footage of The Clash on tour. This creates a sense of realism that makes the film compelling to watch, even for viewers who aren't fans of punk music.

Overall, Rude Boy is a powerful statement about the punk movement and the issues that were affecting working-class youth in 1970s Britain. Gange's journey from apathetic factory worker to engaged political activist is inspiring, and the film offers a unique glimpse into a seminal moment in music history.

The film's soundtrack is also worth mentioning, as it features some of The Clash's most iconic songs, including "White Riot", "Janie Jones", and "Tommy Gun". The music adds to the film's energy and reinforces its message of rebellion and resistance.

It's worth noting that Rude Boy may not be suitable for all audiences. The film contains profanity, drug use, and violent imagery, and may be too intense for some viewers. However, for fans of punk music and those interested in the social history of the UK in the 1970s, Rude Boy is a must-watch.

In conclusion, Rude Boy is a fascinating and engaging film that captures the spirit and energy of the punk movement. Ray Gange's performance is raw and authentic, and the film's blend of documentary and fiction creates a sense of realism that makes it a powerful statement about social and political issues of the era. For fans of punk music or anyone interested in UK social history, Rude Boy is a must-see.

Rude Boy is a 1980 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 13 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.4.