Few comedians are more influential than the legendary stand-up Lenny Bruce, who was born 100 years ago today. A visionary social critic and satirist, who consistently pushed far beyond the boundaries of what it was permissible to say - and think - in the conservative climate of mid-20th century America, Bruce died aged just 40 after a life lived at full tilt. Lenny, adapted from Julian Barry's 1971 play for the equally intense and accomplished film-maker Bob Fosse (Cabaret, All That Jazz) casts a nervy and energised Dustin Hoffman as Bruce in one of his most distinctive early performances, alongside the Cannes and BAFTA-winning Valerie Perrine as Honey, his stripper 'Shiksa goddess'.
To discuss the film, Lenny Bruce, and his influence on his own remarkable work, we will be joined after the screening by the hugely acclaimed stand-up comedian Stewart Lee.
Please be advised that, given the historical setting, as well as the themes and nature of Lenny Bruce's act, designed to challenge the nature - and users - of offensive language, some terms and phrases spoken might be distressing.
