Isaac Asha Tomiczek's poignant short film Vacant Bass explores the impact of clubbing on multiculturalism, and the sense of loss as club culture has come under threat in recent times - and then wiped out entirely by the Covid crisis this year.
Combing hypnotic photography of well-known (and now-deserted) London venues with heartfelt and honest voiceovers from an array of people, the film is a timely and thought-provoking reminder of the impact clubs and clubbing culture have had on Britain, as experienced by black people.
Originally broadcast on Channel 4 as part of their Black And Proud season - which celebrated Black lives and Black culture throughout Black History Month - the film has touched a nerve and resonated with people who are either craving a rave right now, or reflecting on the good times they had when clubs were open for business.
The result is frank, informative, passionate and optimistic, with doses of bittersweet nostalgia. There is also a welcome feelgood factor - something we could all definitely do with at the moment.
Director – Isaac Asha Tomiczek
Producer – Emily Chappell
Executive Producer – Isaac Asha Tomiczek
Executive Producer – Patrice Etienne
Executive Producer – Dershe Samaria
Director of Photography – Kishan Pnadya
Director of Photography – Sam Loane
Director of Photography – Isaac Asha Tomiczek
Editor – Remi Aaaron
Colourist – Jason Wallis
Grading Company – Electric Theatre Collective
Commissioner – Shaminder Nahal
Sound Design - Chris Sharland
Archive Images and Footage – Isaac Asha Tomiczek
Music – Small Axe
Titles - Reuben Armstrong
BFI London Film Festival 2021 | Selection
