50 Years Legal

Directed and written by legendary rock promoter Simon Napier-Bell, created to coincide with the 50 anniversary of the partial decriminalisation of homosexuality, this is an engaging but informative journey through LGBT history in UK since 1967 and how changes in politics and social attitudes, for better or worse,  have  evolved over the subsequent decades.

The documentary features interviews with a veritable who’s who of leading LGBT activists and cultural commentators from across the generations, discussing topics such as homophobia, acceptance, diversity and gender identity. There are personal accounts from actors such as Sir Ian McKellen and Sir Derek Jacobi, singers such Sir Elton John, Marc Almond, Will Young and Olly Alexander, and comedians such as Matt Lucas and Stephen K. Amos. Trans activists such as Jake Graff and Paris Lee offer honest reflection alongside journalists such as Matthew Todd and Matthew Paris and politicians such as Lord Cashman and Angela Eagle.  Simon Napier-Bell established a name for himself in 60s as manager of groups such as The Yardbirds but subsequently went on to manage T Rex, Wham and George Michael. 

50 Years Legal is both a celebration of battles won and lives lived, but also in Simon Napier-Bell’s own words, “the overwhelming conclusion of the film is that it’s not so much tolerance that overcomes prejudice as familiarity. Letting everyone live their life the way they want to without feeling the need to interfere”.

Trailer...