In 1819, thousands of workers are gathering in Manchester to demand reform while the local leaders are debating how to respond. 200 years after the Peterloo Massacre came this film, depicting an event that was tragic at the time but led to voting-rights reforms years later. Set in pretty much the same period as Mike Leigh’s Mr. Turner (2014), this one is also long, talky and gorgeous to look at. The director’s ambition is obvious in the dialogue and period details and the cast is a joy to behold, down to the smallest part; Tim McInnerny is amusing as the grotesque Prince Regent. 

2018-Britain. 154 min. Color. Written and directed by Mike Leigh. Cinematography: Dick Pope. Cast: Rory Kinnear (Henry Hunt), Maxine Peake (Nellie), Pearce Quigley (Joshua), Neil Bell, Philip Jackson, David Moorst.

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