This British Classic Banned in the ’70s Will Still Shock You

by

Quick Links

  • Scum Plot And Cast
  • Why Scum Was Banned
  • Why Scum Is a Classic and Why You Should Watch It

“Scum” is a classic film that was released in 1979 and directed by Alan Clarke. The film is based on the experiences of young people in the British Borstal system, which was a type of juvenile detention center. The movie is known for its shocking depiction of the abuse and cruelty inflicted upon the young residents of the Borstal, both from the staff and from each other.

Banned media continues to pique curiosity and fascination for numerous individuals, prompting queries like “What is it about this content that authorities aim to conceal?” This intrigue frequently extends to provocative films that defy societal conventions or political establishments, leading distributors to label them as inappropriate for public consumption.

Is it true that every film on the list of banned media is exceptional? While some videos nasties gained infamy solely due to being included in this notorious catalog, others, such as “Salo: The 120 Days of Sodom” and Ken Russell’s “The Devils,” have earned significant praise that goes beyond their initial ban.

One noteworthy British film that drew criticism for various reasons and has since left an indelible mark on British cinema is Alan Clarke’s Scum. In this analysis, we delve into the controversial history of Scum, exploring its clash with the BBC resulting in its ban and subsequent transformation into a groundbreaking feature film.

Scum Plot And Cast

The film “Scum,” set in the 1970s, provides a gritty portrayal of the harsh realities experienced in the defunct British Borstal system’s juvenile detention centers. Based on true accounts, the movie chronicles the journey of a young offender named Carlin as he rises to power among his peers through brutal and violent tactics. The narrative also highlights other inmates, such as the rebellious Archer, who tries to manipulate the rules in his favor. Despite having a complex narrative rather than a linear storyline, “Scum” offers valuable insights into this now-defunct aspect of British incarceration history.

“Sometimes, someday I somehow get the strangest notion they’re trying to break my spirit.” Archer

As a gamer, I’d describe it like this: In the movie “Scum,” which was predominantly acted by a youthful ensemble, there were some well-known British actors who graced the screen. Among them were Ray Winstone, who portrayed Carlin and later appeared in hit films like “The Departed” and “Sexy Beast.” Additionally, he provided the voice for the 2007 CGI adaptation of “Beowulf.” Other recognizable names included Julian Firth, Mick Ford, and Phil Daniels, who portrayed prisoners/wardens in the film. Alan Clarke helmed the director’s chair for “Scum,” and while his most noteworthy work remains the ’70s prison shocker, he stirred up controversy once more with the 1982 prison drama “Made in Britain.”

Why Scum Was Banned

As a dedicated gamer delving into the rich history of video game origins, I’d like to share an intriguing tale about an early title that didn’t quite make it to our screens as planned. This game, originally titled Scum, was initially slated for completion in 1977 with the intention of airing it on BBC as a made-for-TV movie or play.

Despite the graphic material being the main cause of the prohibition, the BBC voiced apprehensions. Margaret Matheson, the producer, revealed in an interview with Vice that BBC officials feared the content might be mistakenly perceived as a real documentary instead of a drama. The graphic depictions, along with implications suggesting government dishonesty regarding Borstal’s effectiveness, resulted in “Scum” being considered excessively violent and politically sensitive for television broadcast. Nevertheless, the production team’s insistence on airing the project, even through unauthorized press screenings, only amplified its notoriety and eventually paved the way for its transformation into a full-length film.

In 1979, the controversial motion picture “Scum” was finished. Its completion can be attributed to the buzz generated by the BBC’s ban and the determination of the team to bring the work to the public despite censorship. However, it wasn’t until 1983 on Channel Four that the film saw broadcast, with significant edits. These cuts included scenes depicting a student’s sexual assault and another’s suicide. The original 1977 television play “Scum” was eventually aired in 1991 as part of an BBC 2-themed season focusing on media censorship, a year after the death of its director Alan Clarke.

In spite of its controversial past, the movie “Scum” is now hailed as a timeless piece and a significant work. It dared to confront societal conventions and test limits, leaving an indelible mark on numerous filmmakers and industry insiders who came after it. For instance, Danny Leigh from The Guardian has highlighted its groundbreaking social commentary and bold portrayal of class disparity that set the stage for various other productions.

“Maverick is a tricky word to parse, but if it meant anything at all, then Clarke – off on his own path, sparring with authority – has to be the benchmark.”
Danny Leigh of The Guardian

How Scum Is Still Shocking to This Day

In the novel “Scum,” the intricately designed system of abuse wielded by those in authority instills a profoundly unsettling power dynamic that permeates every scene. The physical torment from adults, such as relentless beatings and harsh punishments, is already distressing. However, the merciless way the children treat one another elevates this disturbance to an entirely new plane. This cruelty signifies a heart-wrenching loss of innocence, and the assumed psychological scars inflicted throughout adulthood cast a dismal outlook on life. Certain scenes stand out for their graphic nature, including instances of brutal beatings, sexual assault, and suicide – all of which evoke a strong, visceral reaction of revulsion.

Drawing inspiration from true tales about the British Borstal system’s youth, director Alan Clarke and writer Roy Minton crafted a fictional work, Scum, that feels startlingly real. By integrating genuine experiences into the script, cinematography, and acting, they created an unsettling sense of authenticity. Viewers are drawn in, observing disturbing events from afar yet experiencing a visceral reaction, wanting to intervene even though it’s just a film.

Despite the abolition of the Brostal System in 1983 and its subsequent restructuring as Youth Custody Centers, the importance of addressing the issue of abuse in juvenile facilities remains significant. This problem persists globally, as depicted in shows like Netflix’s “The Program,” which highlights the lingering impact of flawed systems like Synanon in the United States.

Why Scum Is a Classic and Why You Should Watch It

The raw material of “Scum” is intensely disturbing, heightened by the movie’s unflinching portrayal that makes the brutality seem genuine. Certain scenes may be difficult for viewers with a low tolerance for violence, particularly against adolescents, to endure. Nevertheless, this powerful film is meticulously crafted, leaving an indelible mark on its audience. It sheds light on a shattered system and exposes the stark class and racial divisions that emerged during the unchecked mistreatment of power.

There are numerous ways to watch the classic British prison drama “Scum” (1979). At present, you have the ability to stream it for free on Tubi, The Roku Channel, and Kanopy. Unfortunately, the 1977 version, which was once banned by the BBC before its adaptation into a film by Alan Clarke, is not available for streaming on any platform. However, you can locate a complete version of this version on YouTube.

Read More

2024-07-14 04:31