A Documentary film by Alexandra Moskalenko. This short movie is about the Blackheath Tea Hut, a facility that has sat on the edge of Blackheath
on the A2 at Shooter's Hil since 1924. This area was riddled with highwaymen a century or more ago, and now this tiny building is open around the clock, and around the year (closed for Christmas though) and serves a varied community of locals and passers by, come rain come shine.
on the A2 at Shooter's Hil since 1924. This area was riddled with highwaymen a century or more ago, and now this tiny building is open around the clock, and around the year (closed for Christmas though) and serves a varied community of locals and passers by, come rain come shine.The director makes no contribution at all, the customers and staff do all the talking, interspersed with film of the area (with customer voiceovers) and film of the customers who treat it as a meeting place and open air community centre.
I found it f
ascinating, as the contributors spoke candidly, even therapeutically, about their lives, and how the Hut helped them and raised their sense of well-being.
ascinating, as the contributors spoke candidly, even therapeutically, about their lives, and how the Hut helped them and raised their sense of well-being. Of course the Hut is not universally popular - the Blackheath Society wants it closed - it is (in their opinion) an eyesore, attracts the wrong elements, is a magnet for litter and degrades the environment. Their main concern was the 24 hour opening, something that has been happening for over 30 years. I reckon it would a great shame to end this institution.
This film is not on general release - but the original two showings have been extended to 6 - so get to the Greenwich Picturehouse to see this wonderful 'reality' picture. Rating: 8/10
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