London Calling

Rude Boy


Although virtually devoid of meaningful plot or intelligible dialogue, this 1980 quasi-documentary earned its place in the cultural landscape as a perfect time capsule of pre-Thatcher England, lousy with disaffected youth, boiling social and racial tensions, an economy in decline and, for good measure, possibly the most electric performances the Clash ever put to film. But times are tough for the band as well: They’re constantly borrowing equipment on nonexistent credit, stealing money from girlfriends and Mick Jones won’t get to practice on time.

The film follows gangly sex-shop employee and rude boy (i.e., ska aficionado) Ray Gange, who, despite being totally inept and almost constantly drunk, is hired on as a roadie for Strummer, Jones and Co. over two English tours, inciting riots, boozing and bleeding all the way. The plot ambles along, documenting Gange’s depressing descent into almost complete alcoholism and social ostracism, while the Clash skyrocket to notoriety. Extras include recent interviews with a slightly bitter Gange and other non-muso stars, who strain to recall details about the guerilla-style shoot.