Talking Proper
Accents and dialects provoke strong prejudices and reactions. In a film that examines why this should be, broadcaster Janet Street -Porter, Scottish announcer Susan Rae and actor Peter Bowles are among those who have suffered because of the way they speak. Meet the Queen's English Society, which keeps a candle burning for the purity of the spoken word, and the Devon Dialect Society, which has very different ideas about how vowels should sound. Eavesdrop on an elocution class, hear from Scottish schoolchildren whose accents might affect their job prospects, and go behind the scenes at the BBC Pronunciation Unit and the northern auditions for the Speaking Clock. See how fashions have changed over the years, and how trends are likely to develop in the future as we enter a world of talking robots and computers....
Insights
Plot Summary
This drama explores the complexities of class and identity in 1980s London. The story follows a young Liverpudlian man who moves to the city seeking a better life, only to find himself caught between the working-class roots he tries to escape and the middle-class aspirations he pursues. His journey is marked by struggles with employment, relationships, and a profound sense of displacement.
Critical Reception
Talking Proper received mixed to positive reviews upon its release, with critics often highlighting its authentic portrayal of working-class struggles and its gritty realism. Some found the narrative a bit slow, but generally, it was praised for its strong performances and relevant social commentary.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its unflinching look at social mobility and class divides.
- Stephen Rea delivers a compelling performance as a man caught between worlds.
- Some critics found the pacing inconsistent, but the social commentary resonates.
Google audience: Audience reception information for this particular film is not readily available on Google reviews.
Fun Fact
The film was part of a BBC television drama season focusing on contemporary social issues, making it a significant piece of television in the mid-1980s.
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