Scala!!! or, The Incredibly Strange Rise and Fall of the World's Wildest Cinema and How It Influenced a Mixed-up Generation of Weirdos and Misfits
Scala!!! or, The Incredibly Strange Rise and Fall of the World's Wildest Cinema and How It Influenced a Mixed-up Generation of Weirdos and Misfits
7.3100%
A feature-length big screen documentary telling the riotous inside story of the infamous sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll repertory cinema which inspired a generation during Britain's turbulent Thatcher years.
Spoons reviewedDecember 3, 2024
Scala!!! is a compelling documentary that delves into the legendary Scala cinema's vibrant history. Through a blend of personal anecdotes and archival material, it portrays the Scala as a countercultural hub renowned for its eclectic all-night marathons, where unique experiences—such as cats wandering among the audience—were commonplace. These narratives, alongside accounts of unexpected events during screenings, vividly illustrate a venue that transcended traditional cinema, emerging as a cultural phenomenon that left a lasting impact on a generation of misfits and cinephiles.
The film's straightforward approach, focusing on personal stories and historical footage, allows viewers to immerse themselves in the Scala's rich legacy without unnecessary embellishments.
It also explores the cinema's distinctive iconography, such as its poster-sized programs detailing monthly screenings, and delves into the creation of these materials. Additionally, the documentary examines the Scala's physical location in King's Cross during a less gentrified era, highlighting challenges like the vibrations from the nearby tube station and their effects on the cinema's environment. These elements add depth and texture, underscoring why the Scala held such significance for many.
"Scala!!!" is a must-watch for those interested in the vibrant history of alternative cinema and London's cultural landscape. It will particularly resonate with viewers who appreciated documentaries like "The Last Resort" and "American Movie," which explore niche cultural scenes and the influence of specific venues on pop culture.