It’s 1988 and Daniele Lydon brings to life the era of Thatcher’s government and their laws denouncing homosexuality. Georgia Oakley’s new production Blue Jean follows the struggle of one woman leading a double life in a world of fear and threat.

Blue Jean is set in England 1988 in a time of daunting anticipation as Thatcher’s government is preparing to pass a law stigmatising homosexuals. Gym teacher Jean is forced to live a double life, and as the political tensions rise, a new girl at school an additional threat which sends Jean to the edge.

BBC Film’s new production has been selected in competition at the Venice International Film Festival and will premiere in the Venice Days category, also known as Giornate deli Autori, which is concerned with expression and innovation. The festival will take place at the start of September and spectators will be honoured with the World Premiere of the film. Eva Yates, Director of BBC Film says, “Georgia Oakley’s powerful and timely debut feature Blue Jean and Fyzal Boulifa’s evocative second film The Damned Don’t Cry hugely deserve their selection for Venice Days. Congratulations to Georgia and producer Hélène Sifre, and to Fyzal and his producers, Vixens, all of whom we feel privileged to support early in their careers.’