Film reveals furious rivalry over afros, weaves and braids

Highly competitive Black crimpers are the subjects of an acclaimed film being shown during the UK's Black History Month that is currently happening.

Afro­Saxons is a feature-length observational documentary that offers a rare insight into the fiercely contested multi-million pound world of African Caribbean hairdressing.

The film is gentle in pace and style as it explores the lives and relationships of ambitious entrepreneurs competing for the prestigious Black Beauty/WAHL Hair Awards held at the Afro Hair and Beauty Show.

As well as giving insight into the stylists’ lives, the film examines their craft, showcasing the fantastic Black hair styles created by the flamboyant and dedicated contestants.

Afro­Saxons is having a run of special screenings in the capital, which are part of the British Film Institute’s Britain on Film season, supported by Film Hub London.

They will be held at the Tricycle Cinema, north west London, on October 18 at 3pm, PeckhamPlex, south London, on October 21 at 8:30pm and Regent Street Cinema, central London, on October 22 at 6:30pm.

After each screening there will be a question and answer (Q&A) session with the filmmakers Rachel Wang and Mark Currie, of Chocolate Films and 1000londoners.com.​

The film was greeted with critical acclaim when it was first released in London, in 2008.

Former Critic of the Year Sukhdev Sandhu, who writes for the Daily Telegraph, exclaimed the film was: "A spirited and often funny documentary."

Guardian film critic Peter Bradshaw said: "​In its unpretentious way, this film has something to say about creativity and entrepreneurialism and it’s impossible to watch it without a smile on your face.​"

Wang commented: "It brings back memories of how Mark [her business partner and husband] and I eagerly rushed around on public transport with an old tripod and camera in a backpack... it was a real labour of love and I am excited to be able to show it to a wider audience in 2015."

Currie added: "We are thrilled about the BFI choosing Afro­Saxons as part of the Britain on Film season. it will be interesting to see the reaction as London's social climate has changed so much since it was first released."

* See film trailer here.