The Boot Room

Film - Drama

A film tackling toxic masculinity set in 1980s football.

Based on a short story by ex-footballer, turned author, John Budden, The Boot Room follows the story of a junior footballer, Jamo, navigating the brutal hierarchy of a 1988 professional football club steeped in a culture of systemic bullying and casual racism orchestrated by the intimidating captain Trevor Cain. Initially seemingly compliant, Jamo witnesses the ritualistic humiliation inflicted upon his fellow apprentices in the confined boot room, a space where youthful hope clashes with harsh reality. The film sharpens its focus on the racial undertones of this abuse when Cain forces two black apprentices into a violent confrontation. Jamo's growing unease culminates in a hesitant act of defiance sparking a brutal backlash, turning the violence directly onto him. 

As the situation spirals, the unexpected arrival of Michael Young, the club's respected black star, forces Cain into an unexpected confrontation and splits loyalties hinting at a potential shift in the established order.

Frustratingly still relevant today The Boot Room is a stark reminder why players take a knee before a football match and why organisations like Kick it Out exist.

Director - Atul Malhotra

Producer - Richard Hague

Co-Producer - Camilo Colaco

Executive Producer - Sally Pacy

Press

‘Amusing, horrifying, riveting and authentic...’ The Times

‘So engrossed I actually missed my stop... Remarkable insight into football culture...’ Adrian Chiles

About the author

Author / Screenwriter: John Budden

John started his football career in the 1980s as an apprentice at Crystal Palace, alongside Gareth Southgate. Then in the 1990s he played for Scottish premier team, St Johnstone F.C. He then studied at university and has gone on to became a much respected Head Teacher.

His first novel ‘Everything Happens In August’ a satire on the modern education system and a study in the noble art of bluffing, was published in 2010.

The Boot Room is taken from his his second book ‘We Aim To Live’ a collection of fourteen powerful, dark and funny short stories, about ordinary people at moments of crisis, crossroads or revelation. The stories look unflinchingly at men’s behaviour and the moments when masculinity is on the edge of turning dangerous. Published in 2023.