Influences for Social Realist Drama

Kidulthood



This is England

This is England analysis

This is England is a social realist drama set in the 80's. This is shown especially in the opening sequence by using multiple clips of events that were happening in england during the 80s. Also the clothes that were associated with the 80's are used in the mise en scene. Also the use of people shown such as Margaret Thatcher who was our Priminister in the 80's and examples such as the aerobics class where they are all in florescent coloured tights and leg warmers which was one of many fashions during the time. The song used is also adding on to the time era by being a Reggae song which was a popular type of music during the time the film is set. In the first establishing shot of his school you are able to see the other pupils which are all dressed in 80's styled clothes and it's a typical english school setting the scene. While they are at school there's a scene of them being punished for having a fight, the punishment is being hit by the teacher which now is illegal. This again enhances the fact that the movie is set during the 80's. Another way the film has set the scene of England is having a small corner shop which is a common and expected type of shop to see in England. Whilst in the shop the young boy is very rude to the shop owner who is indian raced, this shows how racism is still happening which was more common in the time era of the film.

Joe Barrett