Top Boy is the real deal
Ra'nell (Malcolm Kamulete), Dushane (Ashley Walters) and Sully (Kane Robinson), in Channel 4's Top Boy. Photograph: Tristan Hopkins/Channel 4
The premiere of new TV drama Top Boy received mixed responses from a broad range of critics before the show had even aired on Channel 4. The mayor of Hackney had refused the filmmakers permission to film in certain settings for fear the show would have a “detrimental effect on the reputation of the area“, and young Hackney residents, speaking to the Observer last week, criticised it for its lack of realism. But was this four-episode series written by Ronan Bennett, which tackled issues including drugs, crime and gang culture in the deprived area of Hackney, really worthy of the hysteria?
From Monday’s viewing, Hackney mayor Jules Pipe’s criticism that it would taint the reputation of the area feels unwarranted. Although he may dispute that the show was enlightening, it is also a fact that authorities like local councils tend to sugar-coat and ignore the urgency of issues such as drug crime. A show like Top Boy tries to portray the reality of the situation and Pipe’s decision not to allow the directors to film locally ultimately undermines the voice of the public.
Having lived on an estate in Hackney for the majority of my life, I have witnessed first-hand many of the issues that the productions aimed to address. While it may be shocking to the outside eye, involvement in drugs couriering does entice some young people who are brought in by the short-term benefits of quick money. In fewer cases, such as the case of the protagonist, poverty and unfortunate circumstances compel young individuals to engage in a life of crime. In my borough, I have witnessed the grossly irresponsible way in which older people encourage young people to involve themselves in crime and believe Top Boy is one of the most realistic depictions of life in some estates to date.
When I first heard about the series, I had my reservations, thinking that it might turn out to be a typical cliched urban drama series with poor acting, no message and substandard filming. It was a pleasant surprise, however, to see that the first episode of Top Boy was shot so well and featured a strong cast. Although some would argue that the past convictions and the violent music of some of the show’s performers, such as Asher D and Scorcher, contradict the show’s intentions, I feel it’s important we note that these artists have turned their lives around and are now using their talents positively. They can act from experience.
Of course I have my criticisms: using the names of real estates in Hackney such as London Fields could be highly problematic as it may exacerbate gang tension by promoting estates and reigniting reputations, and shows like Top Boy still too often assume that experiences of estates are universal, ignoring the fact that some people like me live on estates without being involved in crime. However, being a musician myself, who aims to combine social commentary and the arts, I admire people like Ronan Bennett and Channel 4 for giving daring and groundbreaking work a platform to shed light on pressing issues from an informed perspective. I, for one, look forward to seeing how the series pans out.
guardian.co.uk © Guardian News &
Media Limited 2010
Published via the Guardian News Feed plugin for WordPress.