Review of This Is England (2007) by Sylvia R — 28 Nov 2008

Whatever you do, don't make the mistake of thinking is a slightly better-made version of those soulless Danny Dyer films that come out every once in a while. Unlike that empty nonsense, this pitch-black tale is steered by a writer/director who has something to say, and has the intelligence and skill to communicate it in a gripping and intense way.

It's 1983, and Shaun (Thomas Turgoose) is a lonely, fatherless 12-year-old, who befriends a group of non-political skinheads led by the charismatic Woody (Joseph Gilgun). But problems arise when older skinhead Combo (Stephen Graham), a die-hard nationalist who has just been released from prison, arrives on the scene.

The abhorrent, bullying Combo divides the group, luring the impressionable Shaun into a dark and dangerous world, down a path he would be best advised to avoid. Writer/director Shane Meadows has crafted an important film that is thoroughly watchable in spite of its difficult subject matter.

The characters are wonderfully rich and well-observed and the motives for their actions are thoroughly explored. Meadows, apparently, encourages his actors to ad-lib, and that seems evident here. The dialogue is completely naturalistic, but that doesn't stop the script being superbly tight and focused.

The flawless Turgoose is likeable from the very first frame, as are his initial gang of mates, while Graham is sublime as the savage, brutal Combo. Meadows' grasp of film-making is so firm that you simply sit back and admire.

The juxtaposition of the main story with footage from the Falklands conflict, with which the narrative is linked, is audacious but brilliant. His use of music (and silence) is bordering perfect, while his recreation of the period is authentic without taking over the moral heart of the film.

And be in no doubt, that is where This is England wins you over. Tender and involving throughout, the film finishes with a moving and poetic ending. Unforgettable.