Northern Soul

The lives of two Lancashire lads change for ever after they discover the sounds of rare American soul music. It's 1974, Wigan Casino is the place to dance all night, and the two mates dream of scouring America for enough rare grooves to become the hottest DJs on the burgeoning northern soul scene. Photographer Elaine Constantine's uplifting debut feature works as an authentic primer in the subject and a feel-good snapshot of its era. Like a British Saturday Night Fever, it captures the look, energy and exuberance of a youth culture, while not shying away from the more violent and amphetamine-fuelled darker sides. Elliot James Langridge and Josh Whitehouse are exceptional as the optimistic best mates finding their way in a grimy blue-collar world, with key cameo support from Steve Coogan and Lisa Stansfield. The soundtrack, including Frankie Valli, Edwin Starr and Marvin Gaye dancefloor classics, is another outstanding delight in this tonally precise, multifaceted gem.