In late November of 2005, a small café in the East End of London was due to be demolished to make way for a block of flats. On the eve of the demolition, a handful of local residents occupied the café to stop the demolition. Emily James started filming on the first day of the protest, following them through the long cold winter of their occupation.

Beautifully shot, on HDV cameras, the film draws on the naturally photogenic character of the East End of London, and a colourful and expressive multicultural East End community. The observational footage of the campaign and occupation period is interwoven with interviews from the participants to tell a story of resistance which is at the same time unique and universal.

2006

Fulcrum TV

Broadcaster: Channel 4

Duration: 63 mins