Mike de Leon’s groundbreaking psychological drama is an unflinching study of sadomasochistic college fraternity traditions.
Batch 81 depicts the titular fraternity’s harsh initiation of new batch members, as seen through the eyes of student Sid Lucero, played by Mark Gil in his breakout role. With its depiction of vicious, sustained hazing, the film is both an unflinching study of sadomasochistic college fraternity traditions, and a camp metaphor for life in the Philippines under the Marcos regime.
Hailed as one of the greatest Filipino films of all time and now restored in 4K, Batch ’81 originally premiered at the 1982 Cannes Film Festival during the Directors’ Fortnight. Gil’s unsettling performance as the student with a silent, unwavering belief in the fraternity allows the film to pose troubling questions about the profound psychological need for social belonging.
Please note this film contains sexualised violence, politicised violence and historical depictions of race which viewers may find offensive.
Booking fees
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Booking fees are per transaction and not per ticket. If your booking contains several events the highest booking fee will apply. The booking fee may be reduced on certain events. Members do not pay booking fees.
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Cinema 1
Location
Barbican Cinema 1 is located within the main Barbican building on Level -2. Head to Level G and walk towards the Lakeside Terrace where you’ll find stairs and lifts to take you down to the venue floor.
Address
Barbican Centre
Silk Street, London
EC2Y 8DS
Public transport
The Barbican is widely accessible by bus, tube, train and by foot or bicycle. Plan your journey and find more route information in ‘Your Visit’ or book your car parking space in advance.
