We round off the season with a rather different kind of British film, from a very different time, and a very different director. In what was a huge departure stylistically for Mike Leigh, Topsy-Turvy concerns the 15-month period in 1884 and 1885 leading up to the premiere of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Mikado. The film focuses on the creative conflict between playwright and composer, and their decision ultimately, to continue their partnership.
“Topsy-Turvy is Leigh’s only costume picture and only biopic—a far cry from the bittersweet, realistic films of contemporary working-class life for which he is known. On the other hand, it is an examination of the creative process and the collaborative work involved in putting on a show that mirrors his own methods as a filmmaker. “I’m not given to making films about filmmakers or artists,” Leigh said in 1999, when Topsy-Turvy was first released. “But I decided that it would be good to make a film about what we do, what we all go through.” (Amy Taubin, The Criterion Channel)
📽️ Doors open 5.30, for drinks, nibbles & classic cocktails.
📽️ Films start 6.30 with a brief introduction from the curators.
📽️ Entry is free with a yearly ticket, although we suggest a small donation of £5 per person to help keep the lights on. Yearly tickets can be purchased on the door (£7.50 adult / £6.00 concessions).
📽️ If you buy tickets and are subsequently unable to attend, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can give your seat(s) to someone else.