Film Screening: The Warriors

Nestled in the sprawling catalogue of the former Greater London Council is GLC/DG/EL/01 – Film Viewing Board Files. These are records of film censorship from 1922 to 1985. The files do not cover every film released in this period, but their variety is impressive. In this quarterly series, we will watch a selection of these films.

This edition features 'The Warriors' (1979), which was initially misunderstood critically, and whose stylised violence led to calls for it to be banned in the United States. It now enjoys an 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with a critics’ consensus that it is a “thrilling piece of pulp filmmaking”.

The film

'The Warriors' (1979) is a stylized action-thriller set in a gritty, fictionalised version of New York City. The story follows a street gang called the Warriors, who travel from Coney Island to a massive night-time gathering of gangs from across the city.

The film combines action, suspense, and a comic-book-like visual style to create a unique urban adventure.

Without giving away any plot twists or the ending, you can expect:

• A fast-paced chase story.
• Distinctive gang characters and memorable costumes.
• A highly stylised version of 1970s New York.
• Themes of loyalty, survival, and reputation.
• One of the most iconic cult films of its era.

The evening features an historical introduction from The London Archives, and your ticket includes popcorn and a drink (soft drink or wine), as well as a keepsake inspired by the viewing board file.