Early UK Rave Culture Film 'Beats' Surfaces

Picture the Scottish free party rave scene in 1994.

A black and white photo of a crowd with the words little south on the bottom

Produced by Steven Soderbergh, directed by Brian Welsh ( Black Mirror ) and written by Welsh and Kieran Hurley, the coming of age film takes place in Scotland during the summer of 1994 and follows two friends who dive headfirst into the free party scene.

Making their film debut, the movie's lead actors Cristian Ortega and Lorn Macdonald play best mates Johnno and Spanner - two enthusiastic ravers with a deep bond who are on the cusp of adulthood. Soon to be separated, Johnno and Spanner decide to spend their last summer together living it up at the rave and participating in the UK's massive counter-cultural youth movement.

The soundtrack features tracks from The Belleville Three, Carl Craig, Leftfield, The Prodigy, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Plastikman, LFO, Hudson Mohawke and Orbital.

The film first premiered at the Rotterdam Film Festival and will screen at the Dublin International Film Festival and Glasgow Film Festival and before its UK release on May 17 2019.

Credit: Mixmag

The little south logo is on a blue background.

Written by

Editorial Team • 27 January 2019
by Editorial Team 26 September 2025
Spotify now allows songs to be mixed within the app and adds support for Rekordbox.
by Editorial Team 18 September 2025
The Rambunctious Social Club is hosting a Mexican Night of the Dead Ball, offering a unique cultural experience. This event invites attendees to engage with the traditions of Mictlán through a lively atmosphere filled with mariachi, cumbia, and punk influences. It promises a vibrant celebration of Mexican heritage.
by Editorial Team 18 September 2025
The DJ collective known for hosting a series of breakbeat events under the 'Ink' identity is organising a Halloween event on 31st October 2025. Titled 'Ink Halloween,' the event will be held at the Unicorn venue in Porthtowan. Featured DJs include Jack Skeleton, Nathan Blood, Trick or Tricksta, and LSE. Attendees can a
by Editorial Team 5 September 2025
Youth Music unveils ambitious £2.25M fund to enhance arts access for young people.
by Editorial Tem 5 September 2025
Ben Lawrence delivers a podcast mix influenced by his live club DJ sound, reflecting his current artistic direction. In our catch up, Ben discussed his year highlights, what he enjoys most about DJing and the artists who have shaped his sound.
by Editorial Team 24 August 2025
We are excited to welcome Fatboy Tim into our spotlights with a tribute mix to Fatboy Slim’s “Everybody Loves a Carnival”. This exclusive DJ mix features big rhythms, tropical percussion, and a full-on street party feel. The carnival music features vibrant elements that evoke a sun-soaked atmosphere.
Show More