Pride (2014)
Rating: 4/5 - Very good, lots to enjoy
Boxing Day, BBC 2, 10:30pm
Director: Matthew Warchus. (15)
Synopsis
A group of gay activists led by young and highly political Mark (Schnetzer) work to help a group of Welsh miners during the lengthy strike of the National Union of Mineworkers in the summer of 1984. Despite initial opposition from more traditional members of the miners' community and some outright hostility, they work to win mutual respect through the long months.
Review by Jason Day
On paper, this isn't the most Christmassy choice for a top 5 films on TV over the festive season list. But, thinking again, if the broad Judeo-Christian yuletide themes are about tolerance, respect and thinking and giving charitably to others, this kind-hearted comedy drama should fit right in to movies about Santa Clause or family get togethers.
Pride is of the same ilk as The Full Monty and Billy Elliott; British, working class people faced with prejudice/adversity and tackling it head on, with starry, home-grown casts giving polished performances, all wrapped up in a script riddled with pithy one-liners.
It wears its heart on its sleeve and there are some extremely moving moments, led by Paddy Considine's miner's union rep. giving a moving speech at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern (a famous gay bar in London) despite his terror of public speaking. Funny and uplifting and one you will enjoy, whether L, G, B, T or any letter in between.
For more, read the full review here
