South London locations, including Crystal Palace, were the focus for Afro-Saxons, a new documentary exploring the importance of hair dressing in black culture and community. Zee Gaines reports from her appointment.

Chocolate Films presents Afro-Saxons, a documentary showcasing the work of some of the top afro hairdressers competing in the UK’s National Black Beauty and Hair Awards.

They include two young hairdressers from Brixton’s Hype Coiffure salon, and an infectiously lovable Thai couple, George and Apple Kosit, who live and breathe Afro hair, in Peckham. There are some beautiful creations to admire, with light insight into the lives of this corner of the black community. However these snippets did not intrude enough to be cinema-worthy gripping.

The end result was more like the research which could have then been used to make an interesting British film. The subject matter is so popular it harnesses people in their thousands to the exhibition at Alexandra Palace, yet the film does not explore this aspect of black life, which includes everyone from all walks of life. Nor does it examine the history, thoughts or ideas behind the creations. The film turns away from the media-hyped images of black crime and instead portrays a side of a culture which crosses the boundaries of music, comedians, politicians and television stars. Its greatest attributes are that it is a brave independent film, stylishly filmed, and professionally produced with an excellent soundtrack. It will have a wide audience, should it reach our television screens, but in the meantime, the film can be seen on limited release.

Afro-Saxons, Chocolate Films, Dir Rachel Wang, Mark Currie, UK 2008, 84 mins.

Ritzy Brixton Sun Oct 19th at 18.00, several screenings at the Peckham Multiplex, and at the ICA as part of the 10th BFM International Film Festival Sun 9th Nov 6.15pm with a Q& A session with director-writers, Rachel Wang and Mark Currie.