Beautiful Thing (35mm) + Film Talk

A tender story of first love, belonging and growing up, Beautiful Thing follows neighbours Jamie and Ste as their friendship deepens into romance over the course of one long, hot summer. 

Alongside them are Jamie's mum Sandra and friend Leah, two women with humour, struggles and stories of their own.

Directed by Hettie Macdonald and adapted for the screen by Jonathan Harvey from his acclaimed play, Beautiful Thing transforms the familiar landscape of a council housing estate into a world alive with warmth, wit and bold primary colours, casting everyday life in a new light.

Thirty years on, it's a joy to discover, or rediscover, this much-loved but underseen film, with the music of Mama Cass beating at its heart.

Pre-screening introduction

This screening will be introduced by Reclaim The Frame's Impact Producer Daljinder Johal. 

Reclaim The Frame's anniversary celebration of Beautiful Thing forms part of the Film Audience Network's Rip It Up season, with support from the BFI, awarding National Lottery funding, and from Film4.

Home Season

What does home mean to you? Take a journey through films about growing up and facing the world, finding your community, and seeking shelter and hope. Our season gives meaning to feeling at home, with stories from across generations and cultures.

35mm screenings

We're thrilled to offer this screening on 35mm film. 

A 35mm screening means that you are watching a projection from film, offering a warm, textured, and traditional viewing experience. 

The beauty of 35mm is that each screening is unique. In the unlikely event of a difficulty with our projector or the film print, we will switch to a digital projection instead to ensure you receive an excellent cinematic experience.