Review of This Is England (2007) by Adam B — 22 Sep 2009
Powerful performance from Stephan Graham, who plays Combo, a prison hardened racist who takes over the (relatively) peaceful skinhead gang, in the process dragging 12 year old Shaun with him. This film is hard and real, telling in an honest way of the hardships of Thatcher-era England for the working class. The soundtrack of early ska music is brilliant... And integral to this story. Above all I think this film is about educating and documenting the highjacking a sub-culture in an era where disinfrachised youth were easily manipulated. Skinheads were once an expression of the mixed race working clas of England, and for those who automaticaly identify Doc Martins and shaven heads with Neo-Nazi white power groups, watch and learn.
The story does however feel just that bit too underdeveloped, and looses points for that.
Looks great, sounds great and builds smoothly.
Think American History X, at it's origin, and not trying quite as hard.
This review of This Is England (2007) was written by Adam B on 22 Sep 2009.
This Is England has generally received very positive reviews.
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