SoulBoy is a British coming-of-age drama set in the backdrop of 1970s Britain. The film follows the story of Joe McCain, a teenager from working-class Manchester, who feels trapped in a life of monotony and unrest during a time of economic recession and labor strikes.
One night, Joe stumbles upon the Wigan Casino, a nightclub infamous for its Northern Soul music and passionate dancing. Entranced by the pulsating beat and the ecstatic crowd, Joe falls in love with Northern Soul, a subculture of dance and music that serves as a beacon of hope in a bleak time.
There he meets Jane, a spirited and free-spirited hairdresser who takes Joe under her wing and introduces him to the exciting world of Northern Soul. Along with a group of passionate dancers, Joe immerses himself in all-nighter sessions and competitions, discovering a newfound sense of purpose and identity.
However, Joe soon realizes that the world of Northern Soul is not all fun and games. Along with the joy and excitement, there is also a darker side to the subculture, including drugs, violence, and rivalries. As Joe becomes embroiled in the seedy underground of the Northern Soul scene, he finds himself caught between loyalty to his new friends and the consequences of his actions.
As the film progresses, Joe's journey becomes a coming-of-age story of self-discovery, friendship, and the price of belonging to something bigger than oneself. Through his experiences, he learns the value of resilience, courage, and the power of music to transcend boundaries and bring people together.