THE BRIGHTON KOP
THE GUARDIAN
A short documentary about love and football. 270 miles away from Liverpool...
This is The Brighton Kop.
There are 580 million Liverpool fans around the world, and only a tiny fraction of those can get tickets to the match. Most will watch on screens around the world, screaming and singing at the TV, some just as passionate those at the ground.
This is a true story about human relationships and the emotional connection this unique set of people have forged through a shared love of football. Celebrating their love for the beautiful game and in the process realising it’s about more than 90 minutes.
“I watched the video, very nice. Thank you for your support, it’s cool!” – Jurgen Klopp, manager of Liverpool FC
"Emblematic of everything we stand for" – Peter Moore, CEO of Liverpool FC
“The absolute business. Genuinely moving...” – The Anfield Wrap
“Well crafted and intimate. Restores your faith in humanity. Reminds us of the creativity of football supporters. Simply wonderful.”
– Johnny Cantor, Brighton & Hove Albion FC commentator
Released to coincide with the Brighton vs Liverpool match the film went viral worldwide within hours, with a mention from LFC manager Jurgen Klopp in his pre-match press conference. By the end of the weekend the film had over half a million views.
The underlying messages featured in the film of hope, inclusion, LGBT equality, charity, community and love, resonated with a huge audience. Kop Outs, the LGBT Liverpool supporters club called the film “excellent and important”, whilst national anti-discrimination campaign Kick it Out said it showed the “power of football”.
A film by Reuben Armstrong
Guardian Football Editor: Ryan Baxter
Camera: Reuben Armstrong, Jamie Neale & Christopher Hood
Sound Recordist: Jamie Frye
Illustration: Reuben Armstrong, Caroline Tomlinson & Jonny Burton
Animation: Reuben Armstrong & Jonny Burton
Edit: Reuben Armstrong & Jim Burke
Sound Mix: Jamie Frye
Music: Pascal Wyse
Thanks to The Brighton Kop and all the staff at The King & Queen pub.