Small Axe is a critically acclaimed anthology series created by Steve McQueen, the Academy Award-winning director of 12 Years a Slave. This compelling series consists of five films that explore different aspects of the lives of Black people in London between the late 1960s and the mid-1980s. Each film is set in a specific year and delves into the personal and political struggles faced by the Black community during that time.
The first film in the Small Axe series is Mangrove, which is set in 1970 during the height of racial tensions and police brutality in Notting Hill. It tells the true story of the Mangrove Nine, a group of Black activists who were wrongfully arrested and put on trial for protesting against the constant harassment by the police.
The second film, Lovers Rock, is set in 1980 and takes place over the course of a single night at a reggae house party. The film celebrates the joy, community, and resilience of Black people in London during a time of racial hostility and discrimination.
Historical Context
The series “Small Axe” is set in London during the 1960s to 1980s, a period marked by significant social and political changes. During this time, the city experienced a wave of immigration from the Caribbean, as many people sought better economic opportunities and to escape political instability in their home countries.
The Windrush generation, named after the ship Empire Windrush that brought the first wave of Caribbean immigrants to the UK in 1948, faced various challenges and discrimination upon arrival. They often struggled to find suitable housing, employment, and access to education and healthcare.
Racial tensions were high, and instances of police brutality and institutional racism were prevalent. It was during this historical period that the British Black Panther Movement and other activist groups emerged, advocating for equal rights and justice for members of the Black community.
The “Small Axe” series explores the experiences and struggles of individuals within the Afro-Caribbean community during this transformative time in London’s history, shedding light on the resilience and determination of those fighting for justice and equality.
The Setting of Small Axe
Small Axe is a series of five films created by director Steve McQueen. Each film is set in a different time period and explores the experiences of West Indian immigrants in London.
Mangrove
One of the films in the Small Axe series is titled “Mangrove.” It is set in the late 1960s and early 1970s in the Notting Hill district of London. The film focuses on the true story of the Mangrove Nine, a group of Black activists who were wrongly accused of inciting a riot during a protest against police harassment of the Mangrove restaurant, a meeting place for the local West Indian community.
Lovers Rock
“Lovers Rock” is another film in the series. It is set in the 1980s and takes place over the course of a single night at a house party in London. The film captures the vibrant music and dance culture of the time, particularly the genre of lovers rock, which emerged from the reggae music scene and provided a soundtrack for young Black people in Britain.
The other films in the Small Axe series, “Red, White and Blue,” “Alex Wheatle,” and “Education,” are set in the 1980s and 1990s, and also depict different aspects of the Black British experience. Together, these films provide a powerful and significant portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of the West Indian community in London.
Time Period Depicted
The miniseries “Small Axe” is set in the late 1960s to the mid-1980s, depicting significant events and experiences of the West Indian community in London during this time period. Created by Steve McQueen, the anthology series consists of five films, each exploring a different story and perspective within the community.
The first film, “Mangrove,” takes place in 1968 and follows the true story of the Mangrove Nine, a group of Black activists who protested against police harassment and racial discrimination. The second film, “Lovers Rock,” is set in the 1980s and highlights the vibrant reggae and dub music scene of the time.
The other films in the series include “Red, White and Blue,” set in the 1980s and based on the true story of Leroy Logan, a young Black man who joins the police force to combat racial prejudice; “Alex Wheatle,” set in the 1980s and based on the life of the award-winning writer of the same name; and “Education,” set in the 1970s and centered around a young boy facing discrimination in the British education system.
Through its diverse range of stories and characters, “Small Axe” sheds light on the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the West Indian community in London during a transformative period in history.
Key Themes
Within this time period, “Small Axe” explores various key themes such as racial discrimination, community solidarity, cultural identity, activism, and the pursuit of justice. The series gives voice to the experiences, challenges, and achievements of the West Indian community, highlighting their contribution to British society and their ongoing fight against systemic oppression.
Visual Representation
The visual representation of “Small Axe” is meticulous in capturing the aesthetics and atmosphere of each era depicted. From the fashion and music to the social and political climate, the series immerses the audience in the specific time period, allowing them to experience the sights and sounds that defined the lives of the characters.
| Film | Time Period |
|---|---|
| Mangrove | 1968 |
| Lovers Rock | 1980s |
| Red, White and Blue | 1980s |
| Alex Wheatle | 1980s |
| Education | 1970s |
Years Covered in Small Axe
Small Axe is a collection of five films directed by Steve McQueen, which explores the lives of West Indian immigrants in London from the late 1960s to the mid-1980s. Each film focuses on a different story and time period, highlighting the struggles, triumphs, and contributions of the West Indian community during this turbulent period in British history.
The first film in the series, “Mangrove,” is set in 1968, following the real-life trial of the Mangrove Nine, a group of activists who protested against police harassment of the Mangrove restaurant in Notting Hill. The story showcases the Black community’s fight against racism and discrimination in the face of institutional prejudice.
The second film, “Lovers Rock,” takes place in the early 1980s and captures a single night of love, music, and dance at a house party in West London. It celebrates the Black British experience through the lens of a vibrant reggae and soul-infused party, exploring themes of community, identity, and freedom.
“Red, White and Blue,” the third film, is set in the 1980s and tells the true story of Leroy Logan, a young Black man who joins the Metropolitan Police in an effort to change the system from within. The film examines the challenges and sacrifices Logan faces as he tries to combat racism and prejudice within the police force.
The fourth film, “Alex Wheatle,” transports viewers to the early 1980s and tells the inspiring story of Alex Wheatle, a British writer of Jamaican descent. It explores Wheatle’s journey of self-discovery and the pivotal moments that shape his identity, highlighting the importance of cultural heritage and representation.
Finally, the fifth and final film in the series, “Education,” is set in the early 1970s and follows the story of a young Black boy who is wrongly placed in a special needs school due to systemic racism and discrimination. It sheds light on the impact of educational inequality and the fight for a fair and inclusive education system.
Collectively, these five films cover a span of almost two decades, providing a comprehensive and nuanced portrayal of the West Indian immigrant experience in London during a time of immense social and political change.
Authenticity of the Era
Small Axe is set in the 1960s-1980s, a turbulent period in the history of Caribbean immigrants in Britain. The series delves into the issues faced by the community during this time, including racism, police brutality, and political activism.
To ensure the authenticity of the era, the creators of Small Axe paid great attention to detail when it came to the production design, costumes, and soundtrack. Extensive research was conducted to accurately recreate the atmosphere of the time period.
Production Design
Every effort was made to recreate the physical environment of the 1960s-1980s London. The streets, buildings, and interiors were meticulously designed to reflect the time period. The production team consulted archival photographs and documents to accurately depict the locations where the events took place.
The team also took into account the changing architectural landscape of London during the era. Dilapidated buildings, urban decay, and the rise of housing estates were all accurately portrayed to create an authentic visual representation of the time.
Costumes
The costumes in Small Axe were designed to accurately reflect the fashion of the 1960s-1980s. The wardrobe department extensively researched the fashion trends of the era, ensuring that the characters’ clothing was historically accurate.
From the vibrant and colorful outfits worn during the Caribbean parties to the more formal and conservative attire of the courtroom scenes, the costumes played a crucial role in immersing the audience in the time period.
The attention to detail extended to even the smallest accessories, such as jewelry, handbags, and shoes, ensuring that every aspect of the characters’ appearance was in line with the era.
Additionally, the hair and makeup department paid close attention to the hairstyles and makeup trends of the time. Afro-textured hair, iconic hairstyles, and makeup styles were all recreated to accurately portray the fashion of the era.
By paying careful attention to the production design and costumes, Small Axe authentically transports the audience back to the 1960s-1980s, providing a visual and immersive experience that captures the essence of the time period.
Recreating the Time Period in Small Axe
The critically acclaimed series Small Axe is set in the 1960s to the 1980s, a significant period in the history of black immigrants in London. In order to recreate the time period accurately, the creators of the show paid close attention to every detail, including the costumes, set design, and cultural references.
The costumes in Small Axe reflect the fashion trends of the time, showcasing the vibrant styles of the 1960s, the radical fashion of the 1970s, and the more polished looks of the 1980s. Each character’s wardrobe is carefully curated to represent their personality and background, adding depth and authenticity to the story.
The set design in Small Axe transports viewers back to London in the 1960s, with meticulously recreated streets, houses, and landmarks. The attention to detail extends to the interior design, which showcases the furniture, appliances, and decor of the time period. This level of authenticity creates a fully immersive experience for the audience.
Cultural references in Small Axe further contribute to the recreation of the time period. The music, films, and events mentioned in the series serve as a reflection of the cultural climate at the time, highlighting the importance of art and entertainment in shaping the experiences of the black community in London.
Overall, the creators of Small Axe have succeeded in recreating the time period with great attention to detail and authenticity. This careful attention to historical accuracy enhances the storytelling, allowing viewers to fully immerse themselves in the world of the series and gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of black immigrants in London during this pivotal time period.
Significance of the Chosen Years
The miniseries “Small Axe” is set in different years throughout its five episodes, each depicting a significant moment or period for the West Indian community in the United Kingdom. The chosen years have a deep historical and cultural significance, shedding light on the struggles, achievements, and resilience of this community.
The 1960s: A Time of Discrimination and Resistance
One of the episodes is set in the 1960s, a time when racism and discrimination against the West Indian community were prevalent. This period witnessed the Windrush generation arriving in the UK, a group of people who were invited to help rebuild the country after World War II. However, they faced hostility and were subjected to various forms of racial discrimination.
By focusing on this period, “Small Axe” highlights the resilience and determination of the West Indian community to fight against racism and injustice. It tells the stories of individuals who stood up against discrimination, advocating for their rights and paving the way for future generations.
The 1970s: The Rise of West Indian Culture
Another episode is set in the 1970s, a decade that marked the rise of West Indian culture and music in the UK. This period saw the emergence of reggae music and the establishment of vibrant West Indian communities, which became centers for arts, culture, and activism.
“Small Axe” explores the significance of this cultural shift and showcases the immense contributions of the West Indian community to the artistic and cultural landscape of the UK. It depicts the music, fashion, and cultural expressions that became symbols of pride and identity for the West Indian diaspora.
In conclusion, the chosen years in “Small Axe” hold significant historical and cultural value. They illuminate the challenges faced by the West Indian community in the face of racism and discrimination while also celebrating their resilience, achievements, and contributions to British society. Through its storytelling, “Small Axe” brings these important moments to the forefront, ensuring that their significance is acknowledged and remembered.
The Importance of the Selected Period in Small Axe
Small Axe, a series created by Steve McQueen, is set during the late 1960s to the mid-1980s in London’s West Indian community. This period is of significant historical importance as it showcases the struggles, resilience, and resilience of the West Indian community during a time of racial discrimination and social injustices.
The selected period is crucial in understanding the challenges faced by the West Indian community in the United Kingdom. During the late 1960s, there was a significant influx of West Indian immigrants to the UK, seeking better opportunities and a new life. However, they encountered hostility and racism from the British population, leading to social and political unrest.
The late 1960s and 1970s witnessed the rise of the Black Power movement, with activists advocating for equal rights, representation, and an end to racial discrimination. Small Axe portrays this period accurately, emphasizing the community’s collective efforts to challenge oppressive systems and fight for justice.
The series also sheds light on the impact of the Mangrove Nine trial, a historic event that took place in 1970. The trial highlighted the systemic racism within the police force and the judiciary, as nine Black activists were wrongfully charged with inciting a riot during a peaceful protest. Their acquittal marked a significant milestone in the fight against racial injustice.
Small Axe goes beyond the trials and tribulations of the West Indian community. It celebrates their culture, music, and identity during a time when cultural assimilation was encouraged. The period’s artistic and creative endeavors, such as reggae music and sound system culture, are highlighted, showcasing the community’s ability to assert their own identity and find joy amidst adversity.
| Importance of the Selected Period in Small Axe: |
|---|
| 1. Portrays the struggles and resilience of the West Indian community. |
| 2. Highlights the challenges faced during a time of racial discrimination. |
| 3. Showcases the rise of the Black Power movement and activism. |
| 4. Illustrates the impact of the Mangrove Nine trial in the fight against racial injustice. |
| 5. Celebrates the community’s culture and identity. |
