Directed by Harry Elfont, Deborah Kaplan 
Starring Rachael Leigh Cook, Tara Reid, Rosario Dawson, Parker Posey, Alan Cumming, Gabriel Mann. 

Reviving the titular Archie Comics characters, Josie and the Pussycats is not an exercise in 60s nostalgia. Josie and her band are brought into the early 21st century, where the struggling rock group are picked up by a mysterious major record label whose true intentions quickly become clear. The film is a caricature of the pop music industry that flew over the heads of many of the tweens that saw it on release. In recent years, it has developed a loyal and growing fanbase who consider the film’s humorous message way ahead of its time. Through ironic use of excessive product placement and exaggerated, bizarre fashion choices, Josie makes a mockery of trends, conformity, and capitalism by subverting the iconography of contemporary pop culture. The soundtrack features incredible parody songs written and performed by members of 90s power pop groups Fountains of Wayne, Letters to Cleo, and That Dog amongst others. In recent years, this soundtrack has developed a cult following in its own right, influencing cover versions, tribute shows, and a sought-after vinyl reissue.   

Join us before the screening at 7pm in The Kitchen for an optional ‘Pop Quiz’, a fun trip through 90s & 00s film, music, & culture – prizes for winning teams.  Register your team here. 

This screening is part of Film Feels Curious, a UK-wide cinema season, supported by the National Lottery and BFI Film Audience Network. Explore all films and events at filmfeels.co.uk.