Peterloo (film review)

http://www.counterpunch.org/2019/05/08/peterloo/
Date Written:  2019-05-08
Publisher:  CounterPunch
Year Published:  2019
Resource Type:  Article
Cx Number:  CX23677

Review of a movie about the massacre at a popular revolt in St Peter's Field in Manchester, U.K in 1819.

Abstract: 
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Excerpt:

Mike Leigh’s film of this name is a major representation of a major battle in the history of class struggle. Eighteen (18) were killed, six hundred fifty (650) were wounded. The massacre was effectuated by sabres, swords, and horses hooves, not gunpowder. That’s why so many were wounded. It was a bloody butchery. At a minimum the film does the event justice, but, as we shall see, more than a minimum is required....

The fondest parts of the movie are scenes depicting the micro-economies of the oppressed. Meat pies are not sold but exchanged for a few eggs ("a farthing, or penny farthing for half dozen!" she shouts at the market). Penny a pie. Joseph's mother shares her food.