Four Days in July (or Hot Potato)

Mike Leigh presents the story of two expectant mothers from the Falls Road and Shankill Road areas of Belfast in the lead up to the births of their children (and the 12th July). One woman is Catholic, the other is married to a UDR member, and the film poignantly examines their different attitudes towards the prospect of parenthood in such a troubled environment. Original transmission: BBC1 29/01/1985 (95mins) This was the last film Leigh made for the BBC, and one of the first films scored by composer Rachel Portman.

Illustrates the differences between prospective parents on both sides of the religious divide in Northern Ireland during the troubles. It parallels the similiar situations that they both face in their day to day lives but also reflects on their different attitudes on how to raise their children against the backdrop of the troubles.

Clip courtesy BBC Motion Gallery