BREAKING GLASS – 45th Anniversary

2025 marks a landmark moment in Hazel O’Connor’s career: the 45th anniversary of Breaking Glass, the film that launched her as both an actress and a musician. It’s hard to believe that 45 years have passed—where did all that time go? One moment you’re on the London punk scene, the next you’re celebrating nearly half a century of music and film history.

About the Film

Breaking Glass (1980), directed by Brian Gibson, follows the journey of Kate Crowley (Hazel O’Connor), a young artist trying to make her mark on the London punk scene. Hazel not only played the lead role but also wrote and performed all the songs featured in the film, creating a unique fusion of story and music that captured the spirit of the early ’80s British new wave.

Musical Legacy

The film’s soundtrack, also titled Breaking Glass, was Hazel O’Connor’s debut album, released on 1 August 1980. It reached No. 5 on the UK album chart and remained there for 38 weeks, eventually earning a gold certification. Hit singles such as “Eighth Day” and “Will You” became staples of the UK Top 10. Produced by Tony Visconti, the album remains a testament to Hazel’s songwriting and performance skills.

45th Anniversary Edition

To celebrate this milestone, a remastered Blu-ray edition of Breaking Glass has been released, featuring the original, longer UK cut. Both longtime fans and new audiences can now experience the film in stunning, high-quality detail.