Helen Archer | On 24, Nov 2020

This absorbing documentary, directed by Marian Mohamed, follows 20-year-old UK drill artist Digga D (real name Rhys Herbert) as he is released from prison following 15 months inside, after being convicted of conspiracy to commit violent disorder. Having made a name for himself on the drill scene before being put behind bars, his first priority is to get back into his music and to stay out of trouble.

Probation services prohibit him from returning to London and instead house him in a hostel in Norwich, where he has to check in every three hours. A Criminal Behaviour Order decrees that his lyrics have to be checked and authorised by police, meaning they can effectively censor what he’s releasing. But Digga and his team take it on the chin – his manager, Bills, rents a flat in Norwich to create a studio, and they set about making music. His lawyer is at the other end of the phone for him to run his rhymes through.

And yet, with Digga attending a Black Lives Matter protest, he finds himself under the scrutiny of the law. Similarly, when out and about, he is repeatedly stopped and searched. Mobile phone footage captures these moments when the camera crew is not there.

Digga comes across as endearing and single-minded, wanting desperately to stay on the right side of the law and make a name for himself with his music. And yet, as this documentary effectively demonstrates, the cards are stacked against him. It’s a timely look at the systemic barriers put in place that can stop Black talent from thriving.

 

Defending Digga D is available on BBC iPlayer until 5th January 2021

 

This short review was originally published as part of a fortnightly BBC Three reviews column.

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