The 1960-film , which was directed by Karel Reisz, was adapted from Alan Sillitoe's novel set in his native Nottingham. The film was revolutionary for its time as it was one of the few movies that gave expression to the voice of a working-class character. The representation of vernacular speech, everyday humour, and location shooting makes this film stand out as a classic of 'realist' cinema.
This level of realism in a regional setting was never seen before. The factories and back streets, canal banks and pubs, in which the action took place, were not studio reproductions, but genuine Nottingham locations, filled with real people.
Acclaimed Brit actor Albert Finney gave his first screen performance in the film, taking on the role of Arthur Seaton, a hard-drinking, rebellious young factory work. Seaton was the kind of character what he liked. He remains irresponsible for as long as he can get away with it, before eventually being forced into a life of conformity, married with children on a new housing estate.
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