Happy Birthday to 'Melody'

LambethFantastical presents Lambeth's very own cult movie. Melody, sometimes known by its alternative title S.W.A.L.K. (Sealed With A Loving Kiss), will be 53 on April 21st.

What starts as a tale of puppy love between two cupid smitten twelve year olds ends with a full blown rebellion by pupils against parental authority, and the incompetence of the teaching staff at their grammar school. Released on April 21st in 1971 it boasts a veritable who's who of cinematic legends. Produced by David Putnam (Midnight Express, Chariots of Fire, The Killing Fields). Written by Alan Parker (Fame, Evita, The Commitments). Directed by Waris Hussain (Doctor Who, Edward and Mrs Simpson, Henry VIII and His Wives).

It was the film that reunited the stars of the musical Oliver, Mark Lester and Jack Wild, as well as being the big screen debut of Tracy Hyde, who went on to appear in TV shows such as the Gentle Touch and Dempsy and Makepeace. They were accompanied by a stellar cast of supporting actors, famous in their own right.

It had an absolutely fabulous soundtrack of pre-disco hit songs by the Bee Gees, as well as a classic Crosby, Stills and Nash track, and a rare reggae song by a member of Desmond Decker's backing band.

Most of the locations were in filmed in Kennington, Battersea, and Nunhead Cemetery, including a much loved iconic scene at the Metropolitan Cattle Trough on Lambeth Road, where Melody famously takes her pet goldfish for a swim.

This guided walking tour is a love letter to 'Melody'. It will start and end at Lambeth North Tube Station, visiting the main Kennington movie locations, exploring the lives, careers, trials and tribulations of its amazing cast, and looking at the cultural impact and legacy of the film.

Whether you are a huge fan, remember seeing it in the cinema, or have yet to discover the sheer joy of it, join me on Sunday 21st April at 11am to wish Lambeth's shining star, 'Melody', a happy 53rd birthday.