Saved events

120 BPM (15)

Robin Campillo's 120 BPM

A ‘quietly epic’ (Time Out) portrait of HIV/AIDS activists in early 90s Paris, reimagined in bold and vivid detail.

Moving without resorting to melodrama, writer-director Robin Campillo (writer of Palme d’Or winner The Class) delivers his finest work yet, and has already been hailed by critics as one of the best films of the year.

As the AIDS epidemic tears through their community, the members of ACT UP Paris are fighting for survival. While they battle against governmental apathy, pharmaceutical greed and public ignorance, they also go out partying, debate politics and, occasionally, fall in love.

One day, as outspoken radical Sean (Nahuel Pérez Biscayart) strikes up a conversation with shy newcomer Nathan (Arnaud Valois), they have no idea that their lives are about to change forever.

Based on the director’s own experiences, this vibrant and deeply emotional drama rushes with youthful energy, balancing powerful themes of social justice with euphoric moments of spine-tingling sensuality. Urgent and affecting, it’s a film about life, death, passion, tragedy – and, above all, the will to survive.

Tagged with: Cinema New releases

France 2017 Dir Robin Campillo 143 min

Please arrive promptly at the advertised start time

Proof of ID may be requested on entry to films, in compliance with BBFC ratings

Discover

See more film for less

Get 20% off tickets and pay no booking fees. Plus, enjoy priority booking and £6 Members’ Screenings of the latest films every Sunday (T&Cs apply)

Barbican Cinema 1, 2 & 3