A new short film about Fitzrovia describes recent events and tells of the area’s history.
Paolo Sedazzari of Brand New Films, and a former resident of Fitzrovia, made the film in response to the recent threat by developers: “The film deals with the debate raging about property developers and estate agents dubbing the area ‘Noho’ and, linked to that, what has happened to the site of the Middlesex Hospital. Viva Fitzrovia covers these issues, as well as the district’s rich diverse history,” says Paolo.
Viva Fitzrovia takes you through the bent back streets and labyrinthine alleys of that most intriguing and mysterious district of London – Fitzrovia. Traditionally the hang outs of artists, criminals, revolutionaries and ladies of the night, Fitzrovia may have become ever so slightly gentrified in recent years, but its past still hangs heavy in the air. You don’t have to know anything about it to sense it, to feel it. Viva Fitzrovia explores the region’s past, and the varied collection of artists and characters associated with it . But is also looks at the contemporary issues directly affecting Londoners today – such as the recent demolition of the Middlesex Hospital and what is to built in its place. It also deals with the heated debate surrounding the estate agents and property developers who want to re-name the area ….’Noho’. With a whole host of illuminating Interviewees including publisher and poet Felix Dennis, author Mike Pentelow, photographer Peter Mackertich Viva Fitzrovia is an enlightening and thought provoking visual essay into London’s past, present and future. From: http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xbyro6_viva-fitzrovia_travel
I thought this film was great, it really captured some of the unique character (and Characters) of Fitzrovia.
I liked the line which said that the Developers have done more damage to Fitzrovia than the Luftwaffe ever did.
Maybe the development company that are holding their display in Totfield House (corner Tottenham and Whitfield Streets) would like to show this film on a loop in their gallery as it’s an example of the artistic vibe and culture of the area that they are trying to destroy and turn into a ghastly up-market food court.
I really enjoyed it: informative, amusing, and expressing the heart of this unique area.
“Wildness and wet”: yes!
Great flavour of Fitzrovia, then. Maybe a dash of what is in the area now that continues to make it special is needed in the next one…..?
Really nice thanks