Is This England?

I recently decided to sit down and watch Shane Meadows This is England. Partly because I’ve wanted to see it for years and also because Channel 4 were about to start showing a four part drama spin-off set years after the film ended. It tells the tale of a troubled young boy growing up in Grimsby, mourning the death of his father in the Falkland’s war and trying to find an identity for himself. He finds solace in a chance meeting with some skinheads and is taken under the wing of their leader Woody. With the help of the boys girlfriends Shaun transforms from flare wearing prey to bullies into a skin headed, tough lad with an older girlfriend. However, when Combo (an old friend of Woody’s) turns up after a stay in prison, this happy existence takes a turn for the worse when he brainwashes Shaun with racist views reflecting the National Front organisation.  Portrayed unflinchingly honestly is Shaun Meadows experiences of growing up with the racism and violence under the Thatcher government. The film is able to communicate this because of its low budget and amateur although brilliant actors. The film mixes in real footage of rioting and unrest making the claustrophobic and almost desperate nature of England at that time apparent. This was unrest which would affect the entire nation and must not be forgotten.

It reminded me of a film I was shown in 6^th form called Made in Britain. This Film was made for TV and therefore similarly on a small budget in 1982. It starred a very young Tim Roth as Trevor the Skinhead who spends his time stealing cars and breaking out of his detention centre. The authorities try to make him conform in the most demeaning, patronising and abusive manner and therefore are unable to get through. This theme of youth gone awry did not start in the 80’s but is reminiscent of films such as A Clockwork Orange (1971), although fictional, and Quadrophenia (1979) which both portrayed the dangerous nature of gangs and division due to difference in the UK. This theme will always be apt as we still have debates over class (e.g. the recent election), race, sex and gender.

Therefore I would definitely recommend This is England, not only for its brave message but also for Thomas Turgoose who plays Shaun who is an amazing little actor and amazingly cute! Once you’ve seen it find the recent rebirth on Channel 4 which you can view on 4OD now. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CXDNsPRTANw

Emily x