Alex Wheatle (film)

Alex Wheatle is a 2020 British television film directed by Steve McQueen as part of the Small Axe anthology series. The film tells the semi-biographical story of Sir Alex Wheatle, a British novelist, during his early life, focusing primarily on his experiences growing up in a mostly white children's home and his subsequent imprisonment following the 1981 Brixton riots.

The film explores themes of identity, racism, and the search for belonging. It follows Wheatle as he navigates the social and cultural landscape of 1980s Britain, facing systemic prejudice and struggling to find his place. His time in prison becomes a transformative experience, where he connects with his Jamaican heritage and begins his journey towards becoming a writer. The film portrays the impact of the Brixton riots on the community and Wheatle’s personal evolution amidst the social unrest.