This Is England
By Stefan Pape,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Modern British classic has racist violence and language.

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This Is England
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What's the Story?
THIS IS ENGLAND is set in 1983, when the United Kingdom is dealing with the fallout from the Falklands War and nationalism is bubbling under the surface. Twelve-year-old Shaun (Thomas Turgoose), who lost his father in the war, is taken under the wing of a group of affable skinheads. Though things take a sinister turn when the racist Combo (Stephen Graham) returns from prison, and sees Shaun as somebody he can manipulate.
Is It Any Good?
Simply put, this is one the greatest British films of the 21st century. Directed by Shane Meadows, This Is England is a raw, naturalistic drama that takes a fascinating look into such a nuanced and complex time in modern English history. Margaret Thatcher was the Prime Minister, the Falklands War had taken place, there was mass unemployment, and with that came a dangerous xenophobia, as toxic nationalism threatened to take hold. Meadows' story takes place in front of this backdrop and is enriched by these themes, as they bubble under the surface in a foreboding manner, that makes for a compelling piece of cinema, and an educational one at that.
That aside, it's an incredibly funny film, and the camaraderie amongst the central characters is so authentic. We want nothing more than to be a part of their friendship group -- hence why the TV series that followed were so popular, as this world Meadows has created is one that demands revisiting. The searingly realistic acting is incredible at times, with Graham, in particular, shining as the movie's leading adversary, bringing such depth to the role at hand. But the real genius here is Meadows behind the lens. He tells his story with such affection and knowledge, and depicts this world so clearly. And yet implements such a creative spark of originality in the way he uses music, and visuals. He manages to be artistic without even the smallest element of pretentiousness. Which is harder than it sounds.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the racist language, and the violent, racially-charged attacks in This Is England. As essential as they were to the narrative, did you find them difficult to sit through? How to talk with kids about racism and racial violence.
Discuss how drinking, smoking, and drug use were portrayed in the movie. Were they glamorized? What were the consequences?
How was friendship explored in the movie? Discuss your own friendships. What are those relationships built on?
Talk about the character Combo. What do you think were his motivations? Why did he behave the way he did?
The movie is set to the backdrop of the Falklands War. Did you know anything about this war? How to talk to kids about war.
Movie Details
- In theaters: July 27, 2007
- On DVD or streaming: November 13, 2007
- Cast: Thomas Turgoose, Stephen Graham, Vicky McClure
- Director: Shane Meadows
- Studio: IFC Films
- Genre: Drama
- Topics: Friendship, History
- Run time: 101 minutes
- MPAA rating: NR
- Last updated: February 25, 2023
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