How We Used to Live (2013)

Documentarian Paul Kelly presents his new film, a collaboration with the band Saint Etienne, continuing his series of London-focused movies including Finisterre, What Have You Done Today, Mervyn Day, and This Is Tomorrow, all now available on DVD. Over the past ten years, Kelly has established himself as a unique filmmaker, known for his poetic style that explores London's geography, people, and culture. How We Used To Live serves as a prelude to Finisterre, reflecting on contemporary London life while looking back at a changing Britain. The film combines color footage from the BFI National Archive spanning the 1950s to the 1980s, covering the "New Elizabethan" era from post-war optimism to the rise of Thatcherism. Sound designed by Saint Etienne’s Pete Wiggs and written by Bob Stanley and Travis Elborough of the band, the film is for anyone seeking to understand London. (Source: LFF programme)