Floodlights

The film moves from the late 1990s, when Woodward is a rising professional at Bury under manager Neil Warnock, to the 2010s, when he confronts his past and becomes part of a public truth-seeking narrative. It also alludes to Bennell's earlier crimes in the United States and his return to Britain for the investigation. This span shows how trauma and memory disrupt decades of life and career.

The story unfolds across towns in the North West of England, including Stockport, Manchester, Crewe and Bury. It centers on the football world surrounding local clubs and youth systems, highlighting the environments where coaches and families interact around the sport. The setting reflects a working-class landscape where football is a pathway to fame and prosperity, making manipulation and abuse possible.

🫂 Trauma

The central trauma from Bennell's abuse shapes Woodward's self-image, career decisions, and mental health long after the events. The narrative portrays how fear, secrecy, and manipulation delay healing and fuel lasting damage. It also examines how survivors cope with memories while navigating public scrutiny and professional life.

⚖️ Justice

Bennell's crimes trigger police investigations and a courtroom arc, with Woodward as a key witness. The anonymised report he submits becomes a catalyst for accountability and legal action. The film underscores the importance of witnesses, investigators, and journalists in revealing past abuses and pursuing closure.

🗣️ Disclosure

Public disclosure marks a turning point, transforming private pain into a broader call for reform. Journalists and public figures push the case into mainstream conversation, pressuring institutions to confront historical abuse. The story emphasizes the courage required for survivors to speak out and the relief and risk that come with telling their truth.