TANK What did the original score contribute to the film?
Steve Savale The original score was emblematic of the nascent French Hip Hop scene, though it’s not a traditional film score as such. There is no incidental music and there are few solely musical scenes. Apart from the iconic “Sound Of The Police” section, the music’s way in the background.
TANK How do you see your live adaptation transforming or reinterpreting the original score?
SS The film gives us a lot of space. Because there is no incidental music we’ve tried to add to the emotional intensity and dynamics of the action in a way that creates a larger immersive experience for the audience. The film also allows us to jump to the front of the action. It’s hard to describe, but it’s an alternative way to experience the film.
TANK How has your perspective on La Haine changed since your first encounter with it?
SS At first, I focussed on the larger social and political aspects of the film, but as I’ve gone on I now see it as a film about genuine friendship under severe pressure.
TANK How do you view La Haine’s relationship with political violence? Coming out of a year with several high profile instances of political violence and acts of violent resistance, how does La Haine address the present moment?
SS Wherever there is gross inequality the state will always come down hardest on those who experience its worst consequences. Wherever inequality is at the root of political violence, La Haine will always stand as one of its best artistic examinations.
TANK How do you relate your own experience growing up in the outskirts of London to that of the film's protagonists in the suburbs of Paris?
SS An early ADF song, “TH9”, was written about a clash between the police and Asian youth around the same time as the riots depicted in the opening of La Haine occurred. Three members of ADF were caught up in the event so when we use the song to open the show it has a real resonance for us, and a comparable energy to what’s on screen.
La Haine Live Soundtrack by Asian Dub Foundation, Sunday 19 January 6pm, Southbank Centre, London