This film is part of Free
War Over Somers Town
Slums are demolished to make way for new homes in Somers Town, central London.
Overview
Vivid footage of slum living conditions is combined with heartstring-pulling intertitles and a generous splash of religious overtone. This film was produced by the St Pancras House Improvement Society which was established by Father Basil Jellicoe in 1924, who was vigorous in raising funds to build new homes in the area.
The St Pancras House Improvement Society was prolific in its use of film as a fundraising tool, making over 20 films. It was bold in using shock tactics - seen also in Paradox City (1934) and Challenge - War on Slums (1941). It later became the St Pancras Housing Association, and is now Origin Housing.
Related
Sidney Estate, Somers Town, Children's House Sidney Estate, Somers Town, Children's House
1933 11 mins Silent Location: Somers Town
Happy, ragged children are shown in their swanky new estate in Somers Town, which replaced some of London’s worst housing.
Challenge War on Slums Challenge War on Slums
Campaigning film 1941 17 mins Silent Location: Somers Town
"Plague spots in the richest city in the world" - slums are demolished to make way for new homes in Somers Town, London.
Silver Haze - Exclusive Q&A Silver Haze - Exclusive Q&A
Short interview 2024 29 mins
Vicky Knight sits down with Rowan Woods for an extended discussion on the making of the film Silver Haze. *Contains Spoilers*
Getting it Back: The Story of Cymande - Q&A Getting it Back: The Story of Cymande - Q&A
Inside Film 2024 22 mins
The director of a documentary about British funk pioneers Cymande joins the band at BFI Southbank to talk about the film.
The West Case The West Case
Action and Adventure 1923 28 mins Silent Location: Tilbury
Plotting world domination, Devil Doctor Fu-Manchu steals plans for a new aero-torpedo in this earliest surviving thrill-a-minute serial instalment.
Enter the Scala!!! Enter the Scala!!!
Inside Film 2024 16 mins
Filmmakers Jane Giles and Ali Catterall discuss their documentary Scala!!!, revisiting the legendary and inspirational cinema venue and some of the most notorious films that screened there.