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Samantha Morton, a famous actor, was born in Nottingham in 1977 and had a difficult childhood, spending nine years moving between foster homes. At the age of 13, she joined the Central Junior Television Workshop, and in the late 90s, she gained recognition for her roles in the TV series Band of Gold and the powerful film Under the Skin. She has been nominated for an Academy Award twice for her performances in Sweet and Lowdown and In America, and she won a Golden Globe for her portrayal of Myra Hindley in Longford. Her first time directing was in 2009 for the film The Unloved, which earned her a Bafta award. Morton currently resides in East Sussex with her partner, filmmaker Harry Holm, and they have three children together. She will be hosting a festive takeover on BBC Radio 6 Music on December 27th, which will also be available on BBC Sounds.
1. Photobook
Rewritten: Nick Waplington’s all-encompassing work.
Some time ago, I came across a picture created by the British artist Nick Waplington that greatly disturbed me. It belonged to a collection called Living Room, captured in the Broxtowe estate of Nottingham during the late 1980s. It felt as though he had delved into my childhood recollections and was photographing my house, my family, and my neighborhood. As a result, I have a deep personal attachment to his art. This book published by Phaidon encompasses his entire career, starting from Living Room. It may be pricey, but it is an incredible publication.
2. Gallery
Nottingham Contemporary
This is up there with the best art spaces in the country. I go to anything they put on because they’ve got great taste, and it’s a stunning building as well. I’ve seen so many things there, but one that stands out is an exhibition a few years ago about the Black Panther movement, with photographs, books and films. That really moved me and taught me a lot. It’s an amazing place to visit – and it’s free, which is really important at the moment when everything’s so expensive.
3. Novel
How to Create an Explosive Projectile in Dartmouth Park, written by Rupert Thomson.
One of my preferred writers is Rupert Thomson. Although his latest novel won’t be available in the UK until April, it has already been published in the US under the name Dartmouth Park. It’s an exciting and captivating read, with its usual dark elements but also some humor. The story follows a historian whose life takes an unexpected turn, leaving us unsure of the cause. Has he had a mental breakdown? Is he going through a midlife crisis? The plot is full of surprises and Thomson’s writing is truly exceptional.
4. Theatre
The preferred book of Charlie Cook at the Little Angel Theatre in London.
As a mother of three children, my top priority during this time of year is to visit the Little Angel theatre in Islington. This theatre was founded by the parents of film director Joe Wright and I have been attending their performances for the past 20 years. I have never been let down by their handmade puppets, incredible performances, and beautiful venue. This holiday season, we will be attending “Charlie Cook’s Favourite Book,” which is based on Julia Donaldson’s story about a boy’s love for pirate books. I sincerely hope that Little Angel remains unchanged.
5. Film
Queendom at Broadway Cinema, Nottingham
I have a strong passion for watching movies at the cinema, and Broadway is my preferred cinema of choice. While growing up in Nottingham, I had the opportunity to see Reservoir Dogs and numerous other independent films at this theater. These films offer a unique perspective and challenge traditional ideas about cinema through their creative decisions. Currently, Broadway is featuring Napoleon, Fallen Leaves, and Queendom, all of which I am eagerly anticipating. Queendom is a documentary that follows the story of a drag performer in Russia, serving as both a political statement about the war in Ukraine and a personal narrative of her journey. I am eager to watch this film.
6. Place
St Anthony of Padua Catholic church, Rye
This particular church is among my favorites. Despite some negative associations I have with organized religion, I find solace in the peaceful atmosphere of these buildings. The church in Rye, similar to the one I attended in my hometown of Nottingham, is beautifully simple. It was constructed by the Franciscan order, resulting in a minimalistic design. In today’s self-centered society, we tend to glorify extreme wealth and ignore poverty. This saddens me, making it all the more important to have places of tranquility for personal reflection.
7. Music
Kirsty MacColl: See That Girl box set/Isaiah Collier: Parallel Universe
Recently, I have had a lot on my plate, but I always make time to enjoy music. A box set of Kirsty MacColl’s work has just been released, which includes 161 songs spanning from 1979 to 2000. It is a remarkable collection and features some songs I have never heard before, including 47 unreleased tracks, as well as all of her hits. Additionally, I have been enjoying Parallel Universe, a new album by Isaiah Collier, a jazz composer, activist, and educator based in Brooklyn. It is truly remarkable.
Source: theguardian.com
