The Universal (1995)

Blur's first science-fiction song, The Universal documents a futuristic Britain which is in the grip of the titular drug.

We see no reason to change that high-concept...

The Movie:

Britain. The future. Government officials have made the National Lottery compulsory. It’s also daily.

It’s seen as a good method of distracting the populace from a new drug – the Universal – that is sweeping the streets.

When Universal dealer Jack Tracy meets Rosie Villa in a karaoke bar and tries to sell her the drug, he stumbles on the conspiracy to end all conspiracies.

The Government is making the Universal in a massive lab under Parliament; it’s key ingredient? The blood of the poor.

Lottery winners are invited to Parliament to collect their big cheque, and are never heard from again.

Jack resolves to take down the corrupt officials, whilst trying to deal with the Universal withdrawal symptoms, which make him feel like days are constantly falling through him.

The Cast:

James McAvoy as Jack, Samantha Morton as Rosie the Prime Minister’s daughter, and Phil Daniels as the Prime Minister himself. Terry Gilliam directs this semi-sequel to Brazil.

Sample Dialogue:

Jack: Yes the universal's here, here for everyone.

Rosie: Every paper that you read says tomorrow is your lucky day.

Jack takes out a wrap of Universal from his pocket

Jack: Well, here's your lucky day.

Next: Charmless Man