Burning an Illusion

Menelik Shabazz’s groundbreaking debut follows Pat, a young Black woman whose hopes for a comfortable future are transformed by love, hardship and political awakening in Thatcher-era London. Set around Notting Hill and Ladbroke Grove, Burning an Illusion combines intimate romance with sharp social observation, charting one woman’s journey towards independence and self-discovery. A key Black British film it is a powerful portrait of identity, resilience and community. Screen: NFT4.