COOL AS LEICESTER

Just how swinging were the sixties in Leicester? A new docu-film by a local filmmaker comes to Phoenix this month, with a wonderful representation of the 1960s scene in the city.

”Moving in the Shadows” is a 105-minute documentary that delves into the vibrant creative scene that thrived in Leicester during the 1960s. The film takes viewers on a nostalgic journey, exploring the artistic and cultural movements that shaped Leicester’s identity during this transformative era. Through a combination of archival footage, interviews with key figures, and expert analysis, the film provides an intimate look into the city’s artistic landscape.

The documentary will premiere for a one-off screening at Phoenix Cinema on Monday 20th November, 7.45pm. Written and directed by Arch Creative Director Joe Nixon, we caught up with him to find out more.

Tell us about what inspired Moving in the Shadows?

The film is deeply personal film inspired by my late father, John, affectionately known as Jelly. A few years ago he had carried out a series of audio recordings for The University of Leicester’s East Midlands Oral History Archive. I discovered them in the attic after he passed away from pancreatic cancer in 2017. The tapes revealed a fascinating story about growing up as a teenager during the 1960s – the most exciting era in decades. The tapes ultimately led to the successful Mods exhibition in 2017 which I co-curated, and the subsequent punk exhibition which attracted over 50,000 visitors.

How long has it taken to put the film together?

The film has taken almost four years to put together, although I haven’t been working on it full time! It’s been a labour of love and a passion project on a number of levels which has take up a lot of weekends and evenings after work. Although we make short films and videos at Arch Creative, this is the first time I’ve made a feature length film! It’s been an ambitious project, but I’ve had some great people supporting me. Ben Bradshaw has helped to film the interviews, and my lead editor Matthew Letts has been brilliant working long into the night.

What was it about 1960s Leicester that stands out as such an important time creatively?

Set against the backdrop of post-war Britain and the 1960s, a time of significant political and economic shifts, “Moving in the Shadows” explores the newfound opportunities and freedom that enabled young people to create new identities and spearhead innovation in fashion, music, literature, art, and design. Leicester, like many provincial cities, became a hub for this creative revolution. Leicester has for so long been in the shadow of other cities, despite generating exciting creative scenes. The film aims to shed light on the overlooked contributions of Leicester’s crucial part to play, as well the lesser-known but brilliant creative minds from Leicester who played a significant role in shaping this era.

What can people expect to see in the film?

I’d always been amazed that many of Dad’s teenage friends and contemporaries went on to do brilliant things. “Moving in the Shadows” serves as a tribute to these working-class kids who defied expectations and made significant contributions to the cultural landscape of Leicester and beyond, such as singer/songwriter Roger Chapman from Family, who has been interviewed for the film. We also delve into Leicester’s Mod scene and nightclubs like the II Rondo where The Rolling Stones, The Who and Eric Clapton played. I’ve been really fortunate that I’ve been able to receive some sponsorship from the University of Leicester and their newly formed Heritage Hub. The funding has enabled me to purchase some music and archive footage licenses which have really brought the film to life.

How does Leicester’s creative scene now differ to back then?

Like today, the scene in Leicester during the 1960s was buzzing with lots of live music venues and nightclubs. It differed in many ways though as a lot of the creativity was centred around a thriving coffee bar scene where Mods, Beatniks and later Hippies would meet. What remains the same is the Leicester creative spirit of making things happen that is still well and truly alive. The film is a tribute to this creative spirit during the 1960s and the influential individuals who shaped its cultural landscape. I hope it will inspire viewers and ignite a renewed appreciation for the city’s artistic heritage.

How special is it for you to see this project on the big screen?

It’s really exciting seeing the film on the big screen!  I’ve had two private screenings so far and the reception has been fantastic. The archive footage and photographs from 1960s Leicester really jumps out and is so evocative of the period. I’ve also pulled together a great soundtrack featuring local musicians, including six tracks from Leicester’s legendary progressive rock band, Family, as well as contributions from local singer songwriter Kenny Wilson who appears as an interviewee in the film, blue’s legend Mick Pini and my dad’s band Hopscotch Boulevard. There is a Hopscotch Boulevard album available to buy on the film website, with proceeds going to charity.

Where can people find out more/buy tickets etc?

The documentary will premiere for a one-off screening at Phoenix Cinema on Monday 20th November, 7.45pm. DJ Mark Darcy will be spinning some sixties vinyl before and after the screening, and singer songwriter Kenny Wilson will be performing some of his songs which feature in the film. Tickets are available to buy from the box office at Phoenix or online.