Hettie MacDonalds Beautiful Thing (1996) is a tender, working-class Coming-of-Age & Young Adult Drama about two teenage boys discovering love and identity on a South London housing estate. Adapted from Jonathan Harveys play, it stands as a landmark of LGBTQ+ cinema, blending realism, humor, and warmth into a story of courage and acceptance.

During a long hot summer in south London Jamie is bunking off school more than usual, scurrying back to the TV and the flat in the Thamesmead estate where he lives with his mother Sandra. Whilst his neighbour Leigh, whos been kicked out of school, spends her days listening to Mama Cass records.

In the same block is Jamies sporty classmate Ste, whose home life is punctuated by the regular beatings he receives from both his father and brother. One night, in a bid to escape the violence, Ste takes refuge in Sandras flat and sleeps head to toe with Jamie. As Sandra struggles with a job promotion and her relationship with her hippy boyfriend Tony, Jamie and Ste gradually discover their affection for each other.

Från IMDB:
Jamie is a shy teenager, often bullied at school. His neighbour Ste has a rough time at home, being beaten by his father and brother. This issues bring them together and they find that what they feel for each other is more than friendship.

Extras

Presented in High Definition

Newly recorded audio commentary with director Hettie Macdonald, writer Jonathan Harvey and assistant director Susie Liggat

Q&A with the cast and crew (2023, 32mins): a post-screening Q&A with Jonathan Harvey, Hettie Macdonald, Susie Liggat, Glen Berry and Dave Lynn

Living at Thamesmead (1974, 25mins): A short film produced and directed by Charmian and Jack Saward showing the architecture and landscaping of Thamesmead and everyday lives of the residents

Crashing Waves (2018, 4 mins): A short film in whic