Molly Dineen is one of Britain’s most acclaimed contemporary documentary filmmakers, known for her intimate and probing portraits of British individuals and institutions, and recipient of numerous accolades, including BAFTA, Grierson and RTS awards for documentary.
Being Blacker (2018) was Dineen’s first film in a decade. It tells the story of the renowned Brixton reggae shop owner and music producer Blacker Dread, his extended family, friends and the wider Brixton community.
With the unprecedented access granted by Blacker Dread, her old friend, Dineen shines a spotlight on the struggles the film’s subjects face on a daily basis. Being Blacker offers a particular understanding of both the challenges and triumphs of family and community togetherness, as well as a unique insight into being Black in Britain.
In addition, Molly Dineen’s film Sound Business (1981), made when she was still a student, receives its very first official release. This cult documentary follows two British sound systems, the legendary Sir Coxsone Outernational (featuring a young Blacker Dread) and the (then) up-and-coming Young Lion, both based in south west London. Sound Business is a fascinating and insight look into sound system culture, as well as an important document in the history of Black British music.
