Business as Usual

Business as Usual is a gripping British drama film released in 1988 that embodies strong feminist themes, expressing the struggle of women’s rights in the workplace amid the challenges of societal and professional prejudice. Acclaimed director Lezli-An Barrett showcases her talent for highlighting pressing socio-political issues in a realistic and empathetic manner. The narrative is anchored by an influential performance from the Academy Award-winning actress Glenda Jackson, with noteworthy supporting roles by John Thaw and Cathy Tyson.

The narrative of Business as Usual revolves around Babs Flynn, portrayed with charisma and determination by Glenda Jackson. Babs is a store manager at a popular women's clothing store chain Giro’s, located in Liverpool. Known for her assertiveness and uncompromising nature, Babs finds herself in hot water when she stands up against the unjust firing of a fellow worker. This act of defiance sparks a corporate retaliation, incurring termination of her position under the guise of corporate restructuring.

Continuing the fight that started at her workplace, Babs turns her termination into a public issue. She refuses to back down, and her crusade against her ex-employers starts gaining attention from local media and union organizers. Her experience of a real-life 'David and Goliath' story soon turns into a full-blown labor rights protest, rallying the fired worker she initially defended, other mistreated workers and attracting national media attention.

John Thaw plays the role of Kieran Flynn, Babs' loving but often frustrated husband, affected by his wife's consistent confrontations with her ex-employers. Kieran is tormented by his wife's struggle and the strain it puts on their family life. He becomes a voice of moderation and reality, unlike Babs, who is unwavering in her fight against the corporation, even at personal and familial costs. Tyson's character, Marlene Price, one of the store's assistant managers, brings the struggles of race and class to the forefront as an important subplot of the film, reflecting that Giro's discrimination is not only based on gender but also race.

The screenplay by Maeve Binchy superbly articulates the compelling narrative of the film. Her work emphasizes the broader socio-political commentary—widely prevalent sexism, local politics, and press manipulation, adding various layers to the story. The empowering dialogue and persuasive storytelling techniques she uses in this film have garnered critical accolades worldwide.

Barrett's superb direction takes the narrative beyond the boundaries of a conventional drama and transforms it into a potent commentary on corporate sexism and gender prejudice. It also touches on the broader issues of labor unrest, union politics, and media manipulation in corporate battles. Her approach to Business as Usual is both passionate and personal, showcasing the reality of discrimination faced by women in different fronts of life.

Cinematography by Witold Stok beautifully captures the gritty and stark reality of Liverpool, particularly its working-class neighbourhoods, elevating the authenticity of the story. His lens visually narrates the story in an unembellished manner, adding depth to Glenda Jackson’s riveting performance.

The performances in Business as Usual are vital contributors to its success. Jackson's spot-on portrayal of Babs, a woman who does what she believes is right, regardless of the consequences, pushes her character to resonate with many women far beyond the film narrative. John Thaw's character, Kieran, offers a nuanced look into the life of those indirectly affected by the struggle. Tyson's character Marlene, adds a racial dynamic to a predominantly white cast, depicting a realistic cross-section of working-class Liverpool.

In conclusion, Business as Usual is more than just a tale of feminism and labor rights; it’s an assertive statement against social and professional prejudice. The film embraces a timeless theme that still resonates today, three decades after its release. Business as Usual is a heartfelt call-to-arms about the struggle for equality, the power of collective action, and the resilience of the human spirit against injustice.