‘Leaving Neverland’ Filmmaker Dan Reed to Produce Doc on UK Summer Riots

Channel 4 has announced a new documentary feature focusing on the recent race riots in the UK. The film is being produced by Dan Reed, the filmmaker behind “Leaving Neverland.” Reed will serve as the executive producer for the documentary, which is set to be a 60-minute feature produced by Amos Pictures.

Channel 4’s commissioning editor, Anna Miralis, stated that the documentary aims to provide a detailed account of the riots that erupted in England following the tragic murder of three children in Southport. The narrative will unfold through the perspectives of police, rioters, and eyewitnesses to offer a comprehensive understanding of the events.

In a statement, Reed praised Channel 4 for quickly commissioning the project. He highlighted the documentary’s focus on in-depth analysis of the riots and the broader political and cultural crises that gripped the nation over the summer. Reed stressed that Amos Pictures’ blend of forensic journalism and cinematic storytelling would give viewers a rounded view, capturing the emotions, political motives behind the violence, and the government’s response.

The summer riots erupted in various UK cities and lasted for nearly a week. The violence followed the fatal stabbing of three girls at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in Southport. Initial misinformation spread on social media suggested that the suspect, Cardiff-born Axel Rudakubana, was an asylum seeker. This misinformation contributed to the unrest and was further exacerbated online, including by Elon Musk, who had been critical of UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and suggested that the country was nearing civil war.

Miralis expressed pride in commissioning what she described as a hard-hitting and timely documentary from Amos Pictures. She praised their reputation for fearless and uncompromising storytelling. Miralis believes the film will offer vital context and help viewers understand the horrifying scenes of bigoted violence that took place, shedding light on what these events reveal about contemporary Britain.

Source: Channel 4, Amos Pictures