He then meets a mixed gender group of ethnically diverse Skinheads. Yes, ethnically diverse Skinheads. They're lead by a goofy, good natured guy called Woody (Joseph Gilgun). The Skinheads accept Shaun as one of their own, and he finds a place to belong, his troubles seemingly forgotten. Then Woody's violent, racist friend gets out of prison, and the trouble begins. Members of the group must now choose sides, and grow up in the process.
Like all coming of age stories, This Is England offers plenty of humorous and bitter sweet moments, in its treatment of such common themes as first love and friendship. However, it offers a unique twist by exploring such issues as isolation (personal, social, geographical) and whether finding meaning through action is possible, and linking them to a larger socio-political context.
That last paragraph shouldn't dissuade you. The movie is highly entertaining. The acting is great, as is the writing (Shane Meadows writes and directs). The cinematography and soundtrack tie everything together. It's a great film. Think of a gritty version of Stand By Me with a political edge.
The movie won four awards, including "Best British Independent Film."
If I had kids, I'd let them watch it, but if parents are wondering, here is a list of objectionable content.
