Up the Junction

Synopsis

Up the Junction is a 1968 British drama film based on the book and television play of the same name. Set in the industrial town of London, the film follows the life of a young suburban woman, Polly, who leaves her privileged life to experience the struggles of the working-class. Through her journey, she encounters hardship, love, and self-discovery, showcasing the stark realities of the era's social divide and gender roles. With a raw and unapologetic portrayal of life in the lower class, Up the Junction delves into themes of class consciousness, women's liberation, and the pursuit of personal freedom.

Cast

• 

  Suzy Kendall

  Polly

• 

  Dennis Waterman

  Pete

• 

  Maureen Lipman

  Sylvie

• 

  Adrienne Posta

  Rube

• 

  Liz Fraser

  Mrs. McCarthy

• Linda Cole

  Pauline

Reviews

Up the Junction received mixed reviews from critics upon its release. While some praised the film for its realistic depiction of working-class life and the outstanding performance by Suzy Kendall, others criticized its bleak portrayal of poverty and lack of character depth. The New York Times described the film as a 'gritty and compelling look at social inequality', highlighting its strong social commentary. However, Variety noted that the film lacked emotional depth and failed to fully engage viewers. Despite its shortcomings, Up the Junction was commended for its bold approach in addressing the societal issues of the time. IMDb users rated the film 6.9/10, indicating a moderate reception.