Dirty Pretty Things (2002, 93 minutes) Rated 15, FILMCLUB suggests 14+ Identity & Belonging Inclusion Project theme: Change? What’s this film about? An illegal Nigerian immigrant discovers the unpalatable side of London life. Okwe, a kindhearted Nigerian doctor, and Senay, a Turkish chambermaid, work at the same West London hotel. The hotel is run by Senor Sneaky and is the sort of place where dirty business like drug dealing and prostitution takes place. However, when Okwe finds a human heart in one of the toilets, he uncovers something far more sinister than just a common crime. Why have we chosen this film? Issues raised Cultural change and adaptation: Okwe and Senay are from different cultural backgrounds. Okwe is from Nigeria and Senay is from Turkey, however they find themselves in a common, vulnerable situation. Relationships: The film explores cross-cultural friendships and relationships. Issues they face: Corruption, exploitation, criminal involvement. Be aware of... Contains strong language, moderate sex and grisly images. Before the film: Starter activity What positive and negative experiences do you think people may face when adapting to a new place or environment, for example: a new school, a new country or a new member to an activity club? Do you think stereotypes are positive or negative things? After the film: Discussion Questions Do you think it’s fair that some people in the UK are treated like this, and why? Do you think this film is a true reflection of what can happen when a person is in this situation? The main characters in the film were in a vulnerable situation. Do you think you would have made the same decisions? If not, what would you do differently? After the film: Further explorations 1. Write the characters’ names on four big pieces of paper and stick them up around the room. Give post it notes (if applicable) and ask club members to write one thing they think they would feel if they were the character and stick it by their name. Discuss the results. 2. Imagine you arrive home from school and your parents tell you that you are going to emigrate to a different country next week. Work on your own and write some notes under each heading below, then compare your ideas with a partner. In my suitcase I will put... Things I will miss about my country... How I am feeling... Anything I’m looking forward to... Get Reviewing Check the FILMCLUB Guide to Writing Effective Film Reviews – Secondary for ideas and activities to help club members write their reviews. http://www.filmclub.org/resources/details/353/review-writing-guide-secondary
