It's the little known true story of a group of gay and lesbian activists that decide to support the miners and their families by raising funds for their cause. Their generosity is not fully embraced by the unions but a random phone call soon sets in motion a series of events that changed attitudes and lives.
The cast is a veritable who's who of British actors, with every role performed to perfection.
Dominic West, most recognisable from his role in American detective drama, The Wire, is a hoot as former actor Jonathan whose 80s perm and snake hips manage to win over a social club full of repressed women and overly macho miners.
However it's the lesser known members of the cast that are the true heart of the film. George MacKay plays Joe (one of the film's fictional characters), a young man thrust into the unknown as he explores his sexuality and finds out who he really is.
Then there is Ben
Schnetzer as activist leader Mark, a strong willed young man who stands up for what he believes and everyone, including the audience, loves him for it.
The film doesn't pull any punches. Bigotry, family feuds and the AIDS epidemic are all dealt with. Tony Award winning director Warchus and writer Stephen Beresford have given us a film that is funny and emotional, yet never tips over the edge into being overly sentimental. The script is full of witty banter and hilarious one liners.
This is one of the best British films produced in recent years. It reminds us of the harsh times we have faced but it also delights. The final piece of the movie is truly uplifting and will guarantee a smile on even the most miserable of faces.
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