Small Axe is an upcoming British anthology series created and directed by award-winning filmmaker Steve McQueen. Set to be released in 2020, this highly anticipated television series is comprised of five distinct films that tell different stories about the lives of Black people in London between the 1960s and the 1980s.
Each film in the Small Axe series focuses on a different aspect of the Black experience, shedding light on important historical events and social issues. From the struggles faced by West Indian immigrants to the fight against discrimination and racial inequality, this anthology promises to provide a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of Black identity and resilience.
Featuring an impressive cast that includes talented actors such as John Boyega, Letitia Wright, and Micheal Ward, Small Axe is expected to be a groundbreaking series that challenges societal norms and celebrates Black culture. With Steve McQueen’s passion for storytelling and his commitment to authentic representation, this series is poised to make a significant impact in the world of television.
When to Expect Small Axe Release: Everything You Need to Know
If you’re eagerly awaiting the release of “Small Axe,” the highly anticipated series directed by Steve McQueen, you’re not alone. This five-part drama anthology promises to be a captivating exploration of the West Indian community in London from the late 1960s to the mid-1980s.
Release Date
The first episode of “Small Axe” is set to premiere on November 15, 2020. Each subsequent episode will be released weekly. So mark your calendars and get ready for a thrilling journey through history!
Plot
Through the lens of McQueen’s directorial vision, “Small Axe” delves into real-life stories of resilience, hardship, and triumph within London’s West Indian community. The series will shed light on significant events such as the Mangrove Nine trial and the New Cross Fire, highlighting the struggles faced by Black individuals and communities during this pivotal time in history.
Cast
“Small Axe” boasts an impressive ensemble cast, bringing together both seasoned actors and emerging talents. Stay tuned to witness outstanding performances by the likes of John Boyega, Letitia Wright, Shaun Parkes, and many others.
Episodes
The series comprises five stand-alone episodes, each exploring a different story and era. They are as follows:
- Mangrove: Premiering on November 15, 2020
- Lovers Rock: Premiering on November 22, 2020
- Red, White and Blue: Premiering on November 29, 2020
- Alex Wheatle: Premiering on December 6, 2020
- Educated: Premiering on December 13, 2020
Each episode of “Small Axe” promises to be a unique and thought-provoking experience, exploring different aspects of the West Indian community’s history and struggle for justice.
Where to Watch
The series will be available for streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime Video. So make sure you have your Prime membership ready to catch every captivating episode.
So gear up and immerse yourself in the world of “Small Axe.” This groundbreaking series promises to provide an intimate and powerful portrayal of the West Indian community’s journey in London. With its talented cast, compelling storylines, and exceptional directing, “Small Axe” is sure to leave a lasting impact on both your mind and heart.
Premiere Date and Time
The premiere date for the TV series “Small Axe” has already been announced. The episodes will be released on November 15, 2020. Fans can watch the series on the streaming platform Amazon Prime Video. The exact time of release has not been specified, so viewers should keep an eye out for updates from the platform.
Plot Overview and Setting
The plot of “Small Axe” revolves around the experiences of the West Indian community in London from the late 1960s to the early 1980s. The series specifically focuses on real-life events and stories that highlight the systemic racism and oppression faced by the community during this time period.
The five films in the series shed light on the struggles and triumphs of individuals within the West Indian community, highlighting topics such as police brutality, discrimination, and the fight for civil rights. Each film tells a unique story, but they all share a common theme of resistance and resilience in the face of adversity.
The setting of “Small Axe” predominantly takes place in the streets of London, showcasing various neighborhoods and community spaces. The series captures the vibrant atmosphere of the time, from the local caferias and house parties to the lively protests and demonstrations. Through its detailed portrayal of the setting, “Small Axe” brings to life the social and cultural context in which these stories unfold.
Cast and Characters
The cast of Small Axe includes a talented ensemble of actors who bring their characters to life. The series showcases the stories of various individuals and communities affected by racism and injustice in London.
Here are some of the main cast members and their characters:
- John Boyega as Leroy Logan
- Letitia Wright as Altheia Jones
- Shaun Parkes as Frank Crichlow
- Malachi Kirby as Darcus Howe
- Rochenda Sandall as Barbara Beese
- Amarah-Jae St. Aubyn as Martha
- Sheyi Cole as Alex Wheatle
- Kenyah Sandy as Young Alex Wheatle
These talented actors deliver powerful performances that captivate audiences and shed light on important historical moments. Each character adds depth and emotion to the series, making Small Axe a must-watch for anyone interested in thought-provoking storytelling.
Director and Production
The small axe anthology series is directed by the critically acclaimed filmmaker Steve McQueen. McQueen is known for his previous works such as “12 Years a Slave” and “Widows”. His unique storytelling style brings a fresh perspective to the small axe series, showcasing the experiences of the West Indian community in London.
The production of the small axe series was a collaboration between the BBC and Amazon Studios. The series consists of five films, each focusing on different aspects of the West Indian experience in London. The films aim to shed light on the systemic racism and discrimination faced by the community, as well as celebrate their resilience and strength.
Steve McQueen
Steve McQueen is a British filmmaker and visual artist. He was born on October 9, 1969, in London, England. McQueen gained international recognition for his film “12 Years a Slave” which won the Academy Award for Best Picture. He is known for his thought-provoking and powerful storytelling, often exploring themes of race, identity, and social injustice.
BBC and Amazon Studios
The small axe series was produced by the BBC and Amazon Studios. The collaboration between these two industry giants allowed for a wide reach and distribution of the series. The partnership ensured that the stories and experiences of the West Indian community would be showcased to a global audience.
Anticipated Reception and Reviews
The release of “Small Axe” has generated a great deal of anticipation and excitement among both critics and audiences alike. The anthology series, created and directed by Steve McQueen, has been highly anticipated due to its unique storytelling approach and the talented cast involved in the project.
The series has already received critical acclaim after premiering at various film festivals, where it has garnered positive reviews for its powerful storytelling, stunning visuals, and compelling performances. Critics have praised the series for shedding light on important moments in Black British history and for its thought-provoking examination of racial tensions and inequalities.
Many viewers are eagerly anticipating the release of “Small Axe” as it promises to provide a fresh perspective on historical events and addresses important social issues that are still relevant today. The series is expected to spark conversations around systemic racism, discrimination, and the fight for justice.
In addition to the storyline and its social relevance, the series has also garnered attention for its exceptional cast, which includes talented actors such as John Boyega, Letitia Wright, and Malachi Kirby. Their performances have been highly praised, with critics highlighting their ability to bring authenticity and depth to their respective characters.
Critical Acclaim
The early reviews of “Small Axe” have been overwhelmingly positive. Critics have praised the series for its stunning cinematography, meticulous attention to detail, and powerful storytelling. The anthology format has been particularly lauded for allowing different stories to be explored within the broader narrative, offering a comprehensive and nuanced depiction of the Black British experience.
Furthermore, reviewers have commended Steve McQueen’s direction, noting his ability to capture the emotional depth of each story and create a strong connection between the characters and the audience. The series has been hailed as a masterful exploration of personal and collective struggles, showcasing the resilience and strength of the people involved.
High Expectations
With the combination of a talented creative team, exceptional performances, and socially relevant storytelling, “Small Axe” is expected to receive widespread praise and recognition upon its release. Many industry experts predict that the series will gain critical acclaim and garner several award nominations.
Given the growing demand for diverse and inclusive storytelling, “Small Axe” is well-positioned to resonate with audiences worldwide and make a lasting impact. The series has the potential to educate, inspire, and ignite important conversations about the past, present, and future of racial equality.
