Northern Soul (2014)

Walsh finds the film an exciting, edifying portrait of Northern Soul culture and calls it the best DJ movie of the year. She especially praises its lived-in period detail, energetic direction, and fantastic soundtrack.

Schobert finds the film a wildly entertaining, successful whole, despite a late dip into contrived melodrama. He praises its invigorating music, high-tempo editing, and Josh Whitehouse’s memorable performance.

Harvey finds the film an enjoyable, if modest and unmemorable, throwback. He praises its convincing atmosphere, performances, and soundtrack of vintage American R&B.

Williams finds the plot underpowered but praises the soundtrack, performances and affectionate portrayal of 1970s Lancashire. He singles out the music’s ability to capture the excitement of the Northern Soul scene.

McCahill finds the film an expansive, convincing portrait of the Northern Soul scene, though its protagonist’s journey feels anecdotal. He especially praises the music and the film’s sweaty, cramped recreation of that corner of history.

The review gives the film three out of five stars, indicating a moderate verdict. The available page text does not reveal what Huddleston specifically praises or criticizes.

Dalton finds the drama flat-footed and its characters and subplots underdeveloped, despite the film’s evident affection for the scene. He singles out the energetic vintage soundtrack as its saving grace.

Pape finds the film a joyful, accomplished debut that captures the excitement of discovering music and belonging to a community. He especially praises its vibrant soundtrack and the conviction of Elliot James Langridge’s performance.

Wilkinson finds the film an engaging, grounded portrait of friendship and working-class aspiration, though its focus on the two boys leaves female characters underdeveloped. She praises Elliot James Langridge’s gradual, convincing performance and the film’s period detail and music.

The URL identifies this as a TIFF review, but the page content is blocked. The critic’s verdict and any specific praise or complaint are unavailable.

The review finds the film’s authenticity impressive, though it suggests the music scene gets more attention than the characters. It praises the soundtrack and the film’s depiction of northern soul.

The critic finds the film heartfelt but ultimately shallow, unable to match the music it celebrates. The dancing, period setting and expertly curated soundtrack are singled out for praise.