A powerful documentary portrait of dub poetry pioneer Linton Kwesi Johnson is finally getting its U.S. theatrical premiere, nearly 50 years after it was made.

Film Forum opens Franco Rosso’s DREAD BEAT AN BLOOD on July 24 in a new 4K restoration. The 1979 film follows the Jamaican-born, British-based artist through recording sessions, live performances, and street protests in Brixton as he fights for the release of wrongfully imprisoned George Lindo.

Johnson created dub poetry, a genre that fuses militant verse about Black liberation in Britain with heavy reggae rhythms. The documentary captures him at a crucial moment, just before the Brixton uprising, when frustration in the community was building toward rebellion.

Screening alongside the feature is LINTON KWESI JOHNSON IN CONCERT, a rarely-shown 1985 performance with the Dennis Bovell Dub Band.

The British Film Institute handled the restoration. Director Steve McQueen has called Johnson an example of longevity and integrity for young artists, noting his words remain relevant decades later.

For indie filmmakers and archivists, this is a reminder that some voices take time to reach the audience they deserve.