Descending a Staircase

A pulsing, kaleidoscopic view of London's famous West Indian street party and sound systems.

Kinky Gerlinky was the biggest, most fabulous, most stylish nightclub London has ever seen. This documentary edited from over 200 hours shot on 21 nights, conveys the experience of one full night out at the club, and gains unique intimacy with most of the action directed to camera.

Jewell's film gives us unique access to understanding a controversial work of art within its original context. In 1988, club legend Leigh Bowery installs himself behind a one-way mirror in a week-long residency at Anthony d'Offay Gallery in London. Each day he presents a look from his shocking repertoire, appropriating and revising styles and cultures. Jewell places his camera on the street to capture visitors exiting the gallery, inviting them to react to the show, in the moment. The range of interviewees is diverse, from students and gallery staff, to the cognoscenti from the worlds of art, clubs and fashion.