Categories / Film and TV

Soulboy – 1970s northern soul film hits the big screen this summer

Soulboy

There has been talk of a northern soul film for years, but 2010 could see at least two on the big screen. Alongside the 'in production' Northern Soul (indeed, ahead of it to be honest) comes Soulboy, which is heading your way very soon.

So, the plot as told to us thus far: 1974. Power cuts, strikes and boot-boy aggro on the terraces. Flares, Chopper bikes and beer at fourteen pence a pint. Joe McCain, 17 and restless, is bored with the flatline tedium of a life that seems like it's going nowhere. Enter Jane, moving to the beat of a music that Joe's never heard, a vision of loveliness who opens the door to a whole world of sound, movement and all-nighter dancing at The Wigan Casino – the home of Northern Soul! Swept along on this tide of pulsating dance and lust, Joe finally finds somewhere he belongs and the acceptance and true love he yearns for.

You can check out the trailer over the page. It's due to hit various cinemas over the summer, look out for preview screenings in your area before the general release. More at the website.

Update: The two-CD soundtrack is now available to buy. You can see the full tracklisting and more details at the Amazon website.

Further update: A review of the DVD is now online, you can read it here.

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Categories / Design and Interiors

Vitra Eames DAR plastic upholstered chair

Dar

The original dates back to 1950, but this is a new take on a classic – the Vitra Eames DAR plastic upholstered chair.

It's still essentially the same Charles and Ray Eames classic, complete with chrome 'Eiffel Tower' leg base and of course, a polypropylene shell (replacing the original fibreglass for ecological reasons). It was the first industrially manufactured plastic chair and is still one of the best.

But in 2010, to add versatility, Vitra has introduced an upholstered version, throwing in a choice of inner Hopsak lining for comfort, which gives it an added use as a stylish lounge chair.Many colours available for the finish, with prices around the £474.30 mark.

Find out more at the Utility Design website

Categories / Food and Drink, Homeware

Traditional British tea pot at Pedlars

Pot

We're always deeply suspicious of anyone who doesn't enjoy a good cup of tea – and what better way to brew and serve than in one of these traditional British tea pots at Pedlars.

Yes, nothing flashy, just a hefty pot for slipping in your tea bags or loose tea for makking a brew for anyone who happens to pop in. Even if a few people drop in it can cope as the pot holds a litre of your favourite blend.

Take your pick from the three colours above for this dishwasher-friendly pots, all selling for £12.95.

Find out more at the Pedlars website

Categories / Retro Women's Fashion

Barnacle Beauty Playsuit from French Connection

Barnacle

Allowing for an added wardrobe option for the summer months, the return of playsuits to mainstream fashion has split opinion. But for retro fashion lovers they can provide an easy and effective way of achieving a vintage inspired look with ease.

This Barnacle Beauty Play Suit from French Connection takes its cues from vintage versions; in cut, fabric and fit. The silk material lends a sense of loungey luxury to the piece, with a cut that treads the line between showing flesh and staying classic well. The halter tie-neck, wide legged shorts and high waistline all combine to create a perfect vintage-inspired silhouette.

Get it from French Connection UK for £95.

Find out more from the website

Categories / Retro Women's Fashion

The Ava Dress by Stop Staring!

Avadress

While assymetrical dresses have gone through many incarnations throughout recent decades, a one-shouldered gown is a great way to a classic vintage Hollywood look. This Ava Dress by RTG favourites Stop Staring! has an irresistible hint of that glamour at far less than red carpet prices.

Made from a stretch bengaline fabric, this dress's charm is in the superb cut and fit. Hugging the curves in just the right places, the luxurious gathering at the waist and shoulder add an extra element of 40s/50s class.

Get it from the Stop Staring! online store for $130.

Find out more from the website

Categories / eBay watch

eBay watch: Hille midcentury sideboard by Robin Day

Hille

If the seller's description is to be believed (and to be honest, we don't know for sure if it's correct and there's little evidence offered outside of the seller's opening statement), this is a Hille midcentury sideboard by Robin Day.

To be fair it does have the look of other similar sideboards we have seen, but as ever with large designer purchases, it's always buyer beware. Saying that, it's a stylish unit, made of teak with black enamelled doors, aluminium handles and three internal adjustable shelves within the 6ft unit.

Described as being in 'good vintage condition' with 'only a few surface marks consistant with age', you can bid for this midcentury piece if you have £500 to spare.

Find out more at the eBay website