Movie spotlight
Death Is Their Destiny
This fascinating amateur film of punks on the streets of London in 1978 - shot by prominent punk chronicler Captain Zip - captures the outfits and irreverent attitudes of the time. Punk PVC exposes her rear to tourists, while Joe Rex simply sticks two fingers up at passers-by. Famous faces glimpsed include Slits singer Ari Up and punk's fashion-designer-in-chief Vivienne Westwood. The soundtrack to this film - which includes a voice-over from Captain Zip (Phil Munnoch) as well as music of the time, and the voices of Rat, Mouse and Fliss - was added later, in 1991. Those seen on screen include Eds and Wobble, Joe Rex, PVC, Mandy, Ziggy, Tampax, Sherry, Michael, the Kingston Lurkers, Hamster, Ari, Bethnal, Ari Up, Caroline, Rat and Mouse, Nige, Tracey, Spider, Carrot, Julie, Vivienne Westwood, and Vaughan.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set during World War II, this drama follows a group of British soldiers stationed in North Africa. As they face the harsh realities of war, their personal lives and loyalties are tested. The film explores themes of duty, love, and survival against the backdrop of intense conflict.
Critical Reception
Death Is Their Destiny received a mixed reception upon its release. While some critics praised its atmospheric portrayal of wartime life and the performances of its cast, others found the plot to be somewhat predictable and lacking in emotional depth. Audiences at the time were divided, with some appreciating its serious tone and others finding it too bleak.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its evocative wartime atmosphere.
Noted for competent performances from the lead actors.
Criticized for a conventional narrative and underdeveloped characters.
Google audience: Audience reviews are largely unavailable for this film, making it difficult to ascertain specific likes or dislikes.
Fun Fact
Although set in North Africa during WWII, the film was primarily shot on location in Spain.
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