This Is England '86

Shane Meadows returns with a triumphant poignancy.  Perhaps more overtly comedic than the original film it leads on from (3 years down the line). The stellar cast return, giving markedly stronger performances to boot.  Shaun Meadows’ visceral social commentary returns in full force. Shifting the focus from racism and the rise of the far right toward family identity and sexual violence. A powerful, though controversial, depiction that pulls no punches and reflects the reality of violence of this kind. While I have yet to see the rest of the series I can see how the finale of season 1 has set the stage for Combo’s narrative redemption. I am particularly interested in how Shaun develops as a character in ‘88 and ‘90. Perhaps my only criticism is that initially the series feels a little disjointed from the movie, it is not entirely clear how certain elements fit alongside the plot of the movie. Nevertheless a funny at times, poignant at others, portrayal of the working class experience in Thatcher’s Britain.