Molly Dineen’s acclaimed 2018 documentary Being Blacker, about renowned Brixton-based music producer Blacker Dread, alongside the first ever release of Molly’s 1981 film Sound Business
Molly Dineen is one of Britain's most acclaimed contemporary documentary filmmakers, known for her intimate and probing portraits of British individuals and institutions, and recipient of numerous accolades, including BAFTA, Grierson and RTS awards for documentary.
Being Blacker(2018) was Dineen’s first film in a decade. It tells the story of the renowned Brixton record shop owner and music producer Blacker Dread, his extended family, friends and the wider Brixton community. With the unprecedented access granted by Blacker Dread, her old friend, Dineen shines a spotlight on the struggles the films’ subjects face on a daily basis. Being Blacker offers a particular understanding of both the challenges and triumphs of family and community togetherness, as well as a unique insight into being Black in Britain.
In addition, Molly Dineen’s film Sound Business(1981), made when she was still a student, receives its very first official release. This cult documentary follows two British sound systems, the legendary Sir Coxsone Outernational (featuring a young Blacker Dread) and the (then) up-and-coming Young Lion, both based in south west London. Sound Business is a fascinating and insightful look into sound system culture, as well as an important document in the history of Black British music.
Extras
Being Blacker Q&A (2018, 31 mins): Blacker Dread, Naptali and Molly take a UK road trip and answer audience questions along the way
Interview with Blacker Dread (2017, 39 mins): Filmed at the University of Westminster, Blacker talks about life before and during his 27 years on Coxsone Outernational sound system
Interview with Blacker Dread and Molly Dineen (2017, 38 mins): Blacker and Molly discuss their friendship and the business of Sound Business
Interview with Molly Dineen (2017, 27 mins): Molly talks about her early career and how a white woman came to document Black British culture
Sugar Minott(2010, 11 mins): a short film dedicated to the memory of Sugar Minott for family, friends, fans and all the youths he inspired, directed by Molly Dineen.
TV Trailer (2018)
Illustrated booklet featuring Director’s Statement by Molly Dineen and essays by BFI Director of Knowledge & Culture, Arike Oke and Paul Bradshaw.
