New film 'Northern Soul' plays nationwide thanks to social media

A new film about the British Northern Soul music scene is proving to be an unexpected hit thanks to social media demands. Directed by Elaine Constantine, ’Northern Soul’ is set in the mid 1970s and tells the story of two teenagers who discover the passion and excitement of all night soul music dance sessions, led by DJs playing to thousands of young clubbers, as the scene emerges from British Mod culture. 

Starring Elliot James Langridge and Josh Whitehouse, the film has captured the imagination of music fans. A swell of demand on social media means the it will now show in over 120 cinemas across the UK instead of a select few as originally planned. The reception has taken Constantine, who worked as photographer for style magazines, completely by surprise. It’s a triumph of low budget cinematography that was turned down by arts funding bodies and private investors. Eventually funding came by way of Constantine and her husband re-mortgaging their home and risking personal savings. Cameo appearances include Ricky Tomlinson, Lisa Stansfield, Steve Coogan and John Thompson. 

“A lot of fans were indignant about it not being screened in their home town. A Facebook page was set up by fans urging others to petition the cinemas, ”Constantine said. 

Northern Soul is a term invented by London record store owner and collector Dave Godin. The scene thrived on obscure and often forgotten Black American soul music which is based on the heavy beat of the uptempo Tamla Motown sound of the 1960s. The halcyon years created signature dances and gave rise to legendary sessions at the Twisted Wheel in Manchester, Blackpool Mecca, Wigan Casino and more but is still popular on the underground club scene.

The soundtrack is released on double CD and DVD and a 7" single box set as well as a 60 page hardback book of film stills.

‘Northern Soul’ is released October 17th. For more information on screenings near you click here.

Win a pair of tickets to see Northern Soul at the Curzon Soho in The Jazz Club.