
"“It’s a fascinating tale of race, politics and the strength in teamwork and natural talent of an inspiring group of sportsmen”"
If there is one thing I can assure you, it’s that you don’t need to be in to cricket to enjoy this documentary.
Following the actions of the West Indies cricket team of the 1960’s, 70’s and 80’s – Fire in Babylon, a Stevan Riley feature, is a fascinating tale of race, politics and the strength in teamwork and natural talent of an inspiring group of sportsmen.
In the 1970’s it was a rarity to have a sporting side of an ethnic origin gain so much success. With the unusual comes ignorance, and the West Indies side had to come up against vast amounts of disapproval, not just for their robust style of play, but for the colour of their skin. Subject to racist chanting in an away game at Australia, these men were battling for acceptance as well as glory.
The documentary-film features many interviews with the majority of the West Indies side, who remained unbeaten for 15 years – a longer time than any other nation has been unbeaten in any competitive sport. With highlights coming from wonderful test series wins against Australia and England, the latter being a 5-0 whitewash away from home, or as it famously became known as then, the ‘Black wash’.
The film features much inspirational footage of the West Indies side thrashing opponents using such strength and skill, powerfully yet gracefully, and it is accompanied by an exceptional soundtrack.
With reggae music complementing the film superbly, using tracks from the likes of Max Romeo, Dennis Brown and of course Bob Marley, the soundtrack adds to the uplifting feel to the film, and plays as an ideal partner to what is a film about hope and glory in the face of adversity, which reggae music as a genre could also be seen as representing.
With live recordings of cricket-themed songs played by ageing men in vibrant suits, playing guitar on the beach at sunset - you really feel that the music plays as much of a part in this film, as politics and the sport itself.
And don’t worry if you aren’t much of a fan of cricket – this film focuses on various different themes, acting somewhat as a study of character, sport and history; it appeals to anyone. Helped along well by the narration of the talking heads – legends of the side such as Sir Viv Richards and Michael Holding, they reflect and recount clearly and precisely throughout, making it easy to understand - even if the cricket scoring system does confuse you.
My only downside comes from the fact that the film is to be released in cinemas. Despite being an exciting, colourful experience for the viewer – it could have just the same impact to a viewer watching at home on the tele. Recollecting sporting moments do look impressive on the big-screen of course, but they don’t really warrant a cinematic release. People don’t go to the movies to watch Match of the Day, for example.
However, it’s a really interesting documentary film, and although as a fan of cricket myself, which may have added an extra poignancy to the feature, even if I had walked into the cinema oblivious to all things cricket, I still have a feeling I would have left feeling highly satisfied.
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