Preview by Jon Donnis
This Is Birmingham drops straight into a city defined by tension, power struggles, and a criminal underworld that never really sleeps. The film paints a stark picture of Birmingham as rival gangs clash for dominance, with drugs, violence, and control shaping every move. It sets the tone early. This is not a polished crime tale. It is rough, direct, and focused on the consequences of life inside that world.
Marking the directorial debut of Kay S. Ubhi, who also takes on a central role, the film leans into a grounded and hard hitting style. After building attention on the festival circuit, it arrives on digital in the UK on 6 April through Miracle Media, bringing with it a reputation for intensity and a willingness to confront uncomfortable realities. The influence of modern British crime dramas is clear, but the story keeps its focus tight on Birmingham and the people caught within its orbit.
At the centre is the Kaleo family, long established as a force within the city's criminal network through extortion and racketeering. When their leader Al Kaleo is arrested, that control begins to slip. His son Asher steps forward, eager to prove himself but lacking the restraint his father once imposed. His rise comes at the worst possible time, as a London based rival led by Ruvelle moves in, turning an already unstable situation into open conflict.
The violence spreads quickly, drawing in those who were never meant to be part of it. TJ, a teenager on the fringes, becomes one of the film's emotional anchors as he is pulled deeper into a world he barely understands. His story adds weight to the chaos around him, forcing a choice between escape and being consumed by the life unfolding on the streets.
As tensions escalate, the film pushes towards an inevitable clash where loyalty, ambition, and survival collide. With its mix of action and emotional pressure, This Is Birmingham presents a grim look at power and consequence, asking who will rise and who will fall when the dust settles.
On digital 6 April from Miracle Media
On Apple TV - https://apple.co/4v1RL9n
