If you are a fan of thought-provoking and socially impactful films, then “Small Axe” is definitely a series that should be on your radar. Created by the brilliant filmmaker Steve McQueen, this anthology of five films explores the lives of West Indian immigrants in London during the 1960s and 1970s. Each film focuses on a different aspect of the community’s experience, shedding light on important issues such as racism, discrimination, and the fight for justice.
One of the intriguing aspects of “Small Axe” is that each film can be watched independently, as they revolve around different characters and storylines. This means that you have the freedom to watch them in any order you prefer. Whether you choose to start with “Mangrove,” “Lovers Rock,” or any other film in the series, you can rest assured that you will be captivated by the powerful storytelling and exceptional performances.
However, while the films can be viewed individually, watching them in chronological order can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the overarching narrative. The events portrayed in “Small Axe” are interconnected, showcasing the struggles and triumphs of the West Indian community as they face adversity and strive for equality. By following the chronological order, you will be able to witness the progression of their stories and gain a deeper appreciation for the depth and complexity of the series.
So, whether you decide to watch “Small Axe” films in any order that piques your interest or chronologically, one thing is for certain – you are in for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant viewing experience. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world that is beautifully crafted, heartbreakingly real, and ultimately, incredibly important.
Can you watch Small Axe in any order?
The anthology film series “Small Axe” created by Steve McQueen consists of five standalone films, each telling a different story set within the Afro-Caribbean community in London between the 1960s and the 1980s. While these films can be watched individually and in any order, there is a recommended viewing order based on the historical timeline and themes explored.
1. Mangrove
“Mangrove” is the first film in the “Small Axe” series and is set in the late 1960s. It tells the true story of Frank Crichlow, the owner of a restaurant in Notting Hill that becomes a target of police harassment and racial discrimination. This film highlights the racial tensions and the fight against systemic racism during that time period.
2. Lover’s Rock
“Lover’s Rock” is the second film in the series and takes place in the 1980s. It is a vibrant celebration of the Black British community and explores the love and joy found at a reggae house party. This film offers a glimpse into the cultural and musical influences that shaped the community during this time.
Note: While the films can be watched in any order, it is recommended to watch “Mangrove” before “Lover’s Rock” since “Mangrove” provides important historical context for the events and themes portrayed in “Lover’s Rock.”
3. Red, White and Blue
“Red, White and Blue” is the third film in the series and is set in the 1980s. It tells the true story of Leroy Logan, a young Black man who decides to join the police force in an attempt to bring about change from within. This film explores themes of identity, racism, and the challenges faced by Black police officers.
4. Alex Wheatle
“Alex Wheatle” is the fourth film in the series and is set in the 1980s. It follows the life of Alex Wheatle, a young man of Jamaican descent who finds his voice and identity through music and writing while in prison. This film examines themes of cultural identity, belonging, and the power of art as a form of resistance and self-expression.
5. Education
“Education” is the fifth and final film in the series and is set in the early 1980s. It tells the story of a young boy named Kingsley, who, due to the educational system’s discriminatory practices, is placed in a school for children with special needs. This film sheds light on the systematic disadvantages faced by Black children in the education system and the fight for equal opportunities.
Conclusion: While the films in the “Small Axe” series can be watched in any order, watching them in the recommended sequence allows for a deeper understanding of the historical context and progression of themes explored. However, each film can also be appreciated as a standalone story that highlights different aspects of the Afro-Caribbean experience in London.
Chronological order vs. Standalone episodes
When it comes to watching the television series “Small Axe,” viewers have the option to watch the episodes in either chronological order or as standalone stories. Each approach offers a different viewing experience, and the choice ultimately depends on the viewer’s preference.
Chronological Order
Watching “Small Axe” in chronological order allows viewers to experience the storylines progress in the order they were intended. This approach provides a deeper understanding of the historical context and allows for a more complete narrative arc. By following the episodes in the order they were released, viewers can see the gradual development of themes and characters throughout the series.
Watching the series chronologically also allows viewers to witness the progression of events and social issues depicted in each episode. By starting with the earliest time period and moving forward, viewers can see the societal changes and struggles that take place over time. This approach may enhance the emotional impact of the series as viewers become more invested in the characters and their experiences.
Standalone Episodes
On the other hand, watching “Small Axe” as standalone episodes allows viewers to explore different stories and themes without the need for a specific viewing order. Each episode of the series can be viewed independently as a self-contained story, offering a unique perspective and exploring different aspects of the West Indian experience in London.
By watching the episodes as standalone stories, viewers are able to appreciate the individual episodes for their own merit, without relying on the context of the whole series. This approach may be appealing to viewers who prefer variety and want to delve into specific episodes or themes that interest them the most.
It’s important to note that while watching “Small Axe” in standalone episodes may provide a more flexible viewing experience, some details and connections between episodes may be missed. Certain recurring characters and themes might not be fully understood without the context of the entire series.
Ultimately, whether to watch “Small Axe” in chronological order or as standalone episodes depends on the viewer’s preferences. Both approaches offer unique advantages and can provide an enriching viewing experience. It may be worth considering a mix of both methods to fully appreciate the complex storytelling and historical narrative presented in “Small Axe.”
Understanding the historical context
In order to fully appreciate the series “Small Axe,” it is important to understand the historical context in which it takes place. “Small Axe” is a collection of five films directed by Steve McQueen, each capturing a different aspect of the Black experience in London’s West Indian community from the late 1960s to the early 1980s.
The films explore various topics such as racial discrimination, police brutality, and the fight for racial justice. They shed light on the struggles faced by Black individuals and communities during this period, highlighting the systemic oppression they faced and the determination to fight for better conditions.
The historical context of “Small Axe” encompasses several significant events and social movements. One such event is the Mangrove Nine trial, which is depicted in the film “Mangrove.” This trial was a landmark case that exposed the racial bias within the police force and the Black community’s resilience in standing up against injustice.
Another important historical event explored in the series is the New Cross Fire, depicted in the film “Alex Wheatle.” The New Cross Fire was a tragic incident in 1981 where a house party resulted in a fire that claimed the lives of 13 young Black individuals. This event sparked widespread outrage and raised concerns about racism, leading to the Black People’s Day of Action protest and fueling the fight against racial discrimination.
| Film | Historical Event/Context |
|---|---|
| Mangrove | The Mangrove Nine trial |
| Lovers Rock | The rise of the reggae and lovers rock music scene |
| Red, White and Blue | The experiences of Black police officer Leroy Logan |
| Alex Wheatle | The aftermath of the New Cross Fire |
| Educated | The struggles faced by a young Black student in the British education system |
By understanding the historical context of each film in the “Small Axe” series, viewers can gain a deeper appreciation for the stories being told and the significance of the experiences portrayed. It allows for a more comprehensive understanding of the impact of systemic racism, as well as the strength and resilience of the Black community in their fight for justice and equality.
Exploring the themes in each episode
1. Mangrove
The episode “Mangrove” explores themes of racial injustice and police brutality. It tells the true story of the Mangrove Nine, a group of Black activists who were wrongfully arrested and put on trial in the 1970s. The episode highlights the courage and resilience of the Black community in fighting against systemic racism.
2. Lovers Rock
“Lovers Rock” is a mesmerizing episode that delves into the themes of love, community, and escapism. Set at a reggae house party in the 1980s, it immerses viewers in the vibrant music and dance culture of the time. The episode celebrates the power of music to bring people together and create a sense of belonging.
3. Red, White and Blue
In “Red, White and Blue,” the theme of institutional racism takes center stage. The episode follows the true story of Leroy Logan, a Black man who joins the police force in an effort to combat racism from within. It explores the challenges he faces, as well as the personal sacrifices he makes. The episode raises important questions about the possibility of change within flawed systems.
4. Alex Wheatle
“Alex Wheatle” explores themes of identity, belonging, and the power of self-expression. It tells the true story of Alex Wheatle, a young Black man who finds his voice and sense of self through writing while serving time in prison. The episode highlights the importance of storytelling and the ability of art to transform lives.
5. Education
The episode “Education” shines a light on the theme of systemic racism within the British education system. It tells the story of a young Black boy named Kingsley, who is wrongly placed in a school for children with special needs due to institutional prejudice. The episode highlights the importance of representation and equitable access to education for all.
Impact of watching in different orders
Watching the episodes of Small Axe in different orders can significantly impact the viewer’s understanding and experience of the series. Each episode is a standalone story that showcases different aspects of the Black British experience, but they are also interconnected and offer a collective narrative.
Watching the episodes in chronological order allows the viewer to grasp the overarching themes and historical context that runs through the series. By starting with “Mangrove,” followed by “Lovers Rock,” “Red, White and Blue,” “Alex Wheatle,” and ending with “Education,” the viewer can witness the progression of the Black community’s struggles and triumphs over time.
However, watching the episodes in a non-linear order can provide a different perspective and reveal new layers of storytelling. For example, watching “Lovers Rock” first can create a powerful emotional connection with the characters and their experiences, setting the stage for a more nuanced understanding of the subsequent episodes.
Another approach is to watch the episodes based on personal interests or themes. Each episode explores different aspects of Black British culture, identity, and social issues. This allows viewers to prioritize episodes that resonate with their interests or experiences, such as “Red, White and Blue” for its exploration of institutional racism or “Alex Wheatle” for its focus on identity and self-discovery.
Regardless of the order chosen, Small Axe is a series that offers a thought-provoking and powerful exploration of Black British history and identity. Each episode stands on its own as a compelling story, but together they create a rich and layered tapestry that highlights the resilience, strength, and beauty of the Black community.
Recommended order for the best viewing experience
If you want to have the best viewing experience while watching “Small Axe,” it is recommended to follow the series in chronological order. Each film in the series tells a unique story set during different time periods, but they are all interconnected and provide a deeper understanding of the themes and historical context.
| Film | Year |
|---|---|
| Mangrove | 1968 |
| Lovers Rock | 1980 |
| Red, White and Blue | 1983 |
| Alex Wheatle | 1989-1992 |
| Education | 1971-1980 |
By watching the films in this order, you will be able to witness the progression of the Black British experience and gain a deeper appreciation for the series as a whole. Each film explores different aspects of the community’s struggles and triumphs, and together they form a powerful narrative that sheds light on a lesser-known part of history.
Making your own decision
When it comes to watching the anthology series “Small Axe” created by Steve McQueen, you have the freedom to make your own decision. The series consists of five films that are set in different time periods and tackle various themes related to the Black British experience.
Each film in the series stands on its own and tells a unique story, so you can watch them in any order you prefer. Whether you start with “Mangrove,” “Lovers Rock,” “Red, White and Blue,” “Alex Wheatle,” or “Education,” you will still be able to fully appreciate and understand the film’s narrative and message.
However, if you choose to watch the films in the order they were released, you might notice some connections and references that enhance your viewing experience. For example, “Mangrove” and “Lovers Rock” both highlight the importance of community and resistance, while “Red, White and Blue” and “Alex Wheatle” explore the impact of systemic racism and the power of self-expression.
Ultimately, the decision of which order to watch “Small Axe” is up to you. Whether you prefer to watch them chronologically or randomly, each film offers a powerful and thought-provoking experience that sheds light on important moments in Black British history.
So sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey of “Small Axe” on your own terms.
