Small Axe is a powerful anthology series created and directed by acclaimed filmmaker Steve McQueen. The series consists of five films, each telling a unique story about the lives of Black British people in London from the late 1960s to the mid-1980s. While each film stands on its own and can be viewed independently, there is a cohesive thread that connects them all, making it highly recommended to watch them in order.
Watching Small Axe in order allows you to fully immerse yourself in the world that McQueen has created. Each film explores different aspects of the Black British experience, including discrimination, resistance, and community solidarity. By following the chronological order, you will get a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs of the characters, as well as the broader historical context in which their stories unfold.
Furthermore, watching Small Axe in order enables you to appreciate the thematic and stylistic evolution throughout the series. McQueen masterfully captures the nuances of each time period, using different cinematic techniques and visual aesthetics to enhance the storytelling. As a result, there is a sense of progression and growth that can only be fully appreciated when watching the films in the intended sequence.
Ultimately, whether you choose to watch Small Axe in order or not, one thing is certain: each film is a significant piece of storytelling that deserves to be seen. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let Steve McQueen take you on a journey through the rich and diverse world of Small Axe.
Is it Necessary to Watch “Small Axe” in Order?
“Small Axe” is a collection of five films created by the renowned filmmaker Steve McQueen. Each film explores different aspects of the Black British experience from the late 1960s to the early 1980s. While the films are all interconnected, they can be watched independently as each film tells a unique story.
Watching “Small Axe” in order can definitely enhance your understanding and appreciation of the overall narrative, as there are recurring themes and references throughout the collection. However, it is not necessary to watch them in order to enjoy and appreciate each individual film.
“Small Axe” films can stand alone as powerful and captivating stories that highlight different incidents and moments in history. Each film delves into different aspects of the Black British experience, including racial discrimination, police brutality, and cultural identity. They give voice to marginalized communities and shed light on their struggles and triumphs.
If you choose to watch “Small Axe” in order, you will witness the gradual evolution of Black British experiences over the span of decades. You will see how events in one film can have an impact on the characters and storylines in subsequent films. This chronological viewing can provide a deeper understanding of the overarching themes and context of the entire collection.
However, if you decide to watch the films out of order, you can still appreciate the individual stories and the powerful performances from the cast. Each film is crafted with care and attention to detail, and they all offer a unique lens through which to explore the Black British experience.
In conclusion, while watching “Small Axe” in order can enhance your viewing experience by providing a broader context, it is not necessary to enjoy and appreciate each individual film. Whether you choose to watch them in order or not, “Small Axe” offers a powerful and thought-provoking exploration of the Black British experience that is worth watching.
Chronological Order is Important
When it comes to watching the series “Small Axe,” it is highly recommended to watch it in chronological order. Although each episode stands on its own and tells a unique story, the episodes are connected thematically and historically, and watching them in order provides a more comprehensive and meaningful viewing experience.
The series is comprised of five standalone films, each exploring a different aspect of the West Indian community’s experience in London from the 1960s to the 1980s. The films are Mangrove, Lovers Rock, Red, White and Blue, Alex Wheatle, and Educated. Each film tackles a different topic, ranging from racial discrimination and police brutality to identity and cultural celebration.
Watching the films in chronological order allows the viewer to witness the progression of time and gain a deeper understanding of the historical and social context in which these stories unfold. The events of the earlier films lay the foundation for the later ones, and characters from previous films may make appearances or be referenced in subsequent ones. By following the chronological order, the viewer can fully appreciate the interconnections and references made throughout the series.
Furthermore, watching the series in order provides a more immersive experience as the viewer becomes familiar with the recurring themes, motifs, and stylistic choices that director Steve McQueen employs throughout the series. Each film has its own unique tone and visual style, but watching them in chronological order allows the viewer to witness the evolution and development of McQueen’s storytelling techniques.
The Recommended Viewing Order:
- Mangrove
- Lovers Rock
- Red, White and Blue
- Alex Wheatle
- Educated
By following this recommended viewing order, viewers can fully immerse themselves in the world of “Small Axe” and gain a deeper appreciation for the themes and stories explored throughout the series. Each film builds upon the previous one, providing a rich and interconnected viewing experience.
Understanding the Historical Context
In order to fully appreciate the significance and impact of the small axe series, it is important to understand the historical context in which the events depicted take place. The small axe series revolves around the experiences of Black individuals and communities in London during the 1960s-1980s.
Post-WWII Immigration and the Windrush Generation
Following World War II, there was a wave of immigration from former British colonies, known as the Windrush generation. These individuals, mainly from Caribbean countries, were invited to live and work in the UK to help rebuild the country. The small axe series explores the challenges and discrimination faced by the Windrush generation as they settled in London.
Institutional Racism and Discrimination
During this time period, institutional racism and discrimination were prevalent in various aspects of British society, including housing, education, and employment. Black individuals faced significant barriers, leading to inequality and a struggle for equal rights. Small axe sheds light on these injustices and the fight for racial equality.
| Episode | Historical Context |
|---|---|
| Mangrove | Focuses on the 1971 trial of the Mangrove Nine, who were Black activists and intellectuals charged with inciting a riot after protesting police harassment of the Mangrove restaurant in Notting Hill. |
| Lovers Rock | Explores the vibrant Black reggae and blues house party scene of the 1980s, where young Black Britons found solace and joy amidst the discrimination they faced in wider society. |
| Red, White and Blue | Tells the true story of Leroy Logan, a Black man who joined the Metropolitan Police Force in the 1980s in an attempt to combat the racism and discrimination within the force. |
| Alex Wheatle | Follows the life of Alex Wheatle, a British writer of Jamaican descent, who became a prominent voice in the Black British literary scene and experienced the Brixton uprising of 1981. |
| Educated | Focuses on the struggles of a young Black student searching for an education and opportunities in a system that perpetuated racial inequality. |
By understanding the historical context, viewers can grasp the significance of the small axe series in highlighting these important and often overlooked aspects of Black British history. Each episode offers a unique perspective and contributes to the overall narrative of resistance, resilience, and the fight for justice.
Appreciating the Director’s Vision
In order to fully appreciate the brilliance of “Small Axe,” it is important to understand and acknowledge the director’s vision. Steve McQueen, the talented filmmaker behind the anthology series, has masterfully crafted a narrative that interweaves historical events with personal stories, creating a captivating and thought-provoking viewing experience.
McQueen’s meticulous attention to detail is evident throughout each film in the series, as he expertly recreates the time period and immerses the audience in the setting. From the costume design to the music selection, every aspect of the production is carefully chosen to enhance the storytelling and evoke a sense of authenticity.
Furthermore, McQueen’s choice to tell the stories of the West Indian community in London during the 1960s and 1970s is significant and impactful. Through “Small Axe,” he sheds light on a chapter of history that is often overlooked or forgotten, bringing attention to the struggles, triumphs, and resilience of the community.
The Power of Representation
An essential part of McQueen’s vision is the emphasis on representation and the amplification of voices that have been marginalized in mainstream narratives. By centering the stories of black individuals and communities, he creates a space for their experiences to be acknowledged, understood, and celebrated.
Through his storytelling, McQueen challenges existing power structures and confronts systemic racism, illustrating the importance of equality and justice. He uses “Small Axe” as a platform to explore themes of identity, community, and activism, igniting conversations and inspiring audiences to take action.
A Cinematic Achievement
“Small Axe” is not just a series of independent films, but rather an interconnected body of work that reinforces its overall impact. Each film enriches and builds upon the others, creating a comprehensive and multi-layered narrative.
From the subtle references and recurring motifs to the shared themes and stories, McQueen’s vision comes to life through the unity and coherence of the series. The director’s dedication to his craft is evident, as he seamlessly blends different genres and styles while maintaining a consistent and compelling tone.
In conclusion, “Small Axe” is a testament to Steve McQueen’s artistic vision and storytelling prowess. Through his attention to detail, commitment to representation, and mastery of the medium, he has created a series that demands to be watched and appreciated in order to fully grasp the depth and significance of the narratives being told.
