Christopher Petit’s debut feature Radio On is the rare road movie from England. Since its 1979 release it’s become a cult classic and been recognized as one of one of the “100 Greatest British Films” (Little White Lies). Robert (David Beames), the film’s enigmatic protagonist, embarks on a road trip from London to Bristol, to investigate the recent death of his brother. A remarkable collection of art rock, punk and new wave—David Bowie, Devo, Kraftwerk, Robert Fripp, Ian Dury and more—soundtracks Robert’s journey. The austere urban and rural landscapes he drives through are beautifully and strikingly rendered in black and white by cinematographer Martin Shäfer (who had been Wim Wenders’ camera operator). As Robert drives westward, the radio newscasts he hears and the strangers he meets address the dire sociopolitical and economic state of “Winter of Discontent”-era Britain. Petit deftly melds these stylistic, narrative and documentary elements, resulting in an undeniably eerie and reflective mood that casts a hypnotic spell on the viewer. (Christopher Petit, UK/West Germany, 1979, 101 min.)
Our goal is to ensure your visit to Lightbox is safe and comfortable. As we resume in-person events in the coming months, we will continue to follow the health and safety guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control as well as state and local officials. While preparing to attend a Lightbox program please note the following:
·Lightbox Film Center at UArts is a vaccine-required community, with few exceptions.
·All guests must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, and must present proof of vaccination at the box office. CDC-issued vaccination cards are preferred, though photographic proof will also be accepted. Masks are required at all times.
·Lightbox will be operating at reduced capacity until further notice.
·Tickets to all screenings must be purchased in advance at https://lightbox-film-center.ticketleap.com/
