BUBBLEGUM is a short film exploring the influence of John Carpenter’s They Live – directed by Farran Golding and produced in association with Rough Trade Books.

Starring Rowdy Roddy Piper and released in 1988, They Live was fuelled by Carpenter’s disdain for Reaganism, mass consumerism and the ‘unrestrained capitalism’ of the era. BUBBLEGUM delves into the film’s political undertones which are just as – if not more – pertinent today.

Through interviews with Craig Oldham, designer and editor of They Live: A Visual and Cultural Awakening, a new book published by Rough Trade Books, alongside academic and author, Roger Luckhurst; BUBBLEGUM examines the social commentary, enduring graphical impact and referential legacy of an often slept-on entry in John Carpenter’s body of work.

BUBBLEGUM premiered at Village on Thursday 28th March to celebrate the closing of Craig Oldham’s exhibition They Live: A Visual and Cultural Awakening to coincide with the book, which features a selection of artwork relating to the film including pieces by Shepard Fairey, Guerrilla Girls, Brandalism and more.

Check out more photos from the premiere below:

Photo Credit: Brenna @reprobate1988