Navigating the Nostalgic Maze: How Many "This is England" Films Are There, and In What Order Should You Watch Them?
Ah, "This is England." A coming-of-age story that'll have you laughing one minute, wiping away a tear the next, and maybe wincing at some truly questionable fashion choices (looking at you, Woody's shellsuit). But before you dive headfirst into this British gem, a question might be nagging at you: how many films are there, and in what order should I watch them? Well, fret no more, my friend, for I'm here to be your guide through this nostalgic maze.
It's Not Just a Movie, It's a Miniseries Extravaganza!
Here's the thing: "This is England" actually started as a film released in 2006. It follows Shaun, a young lad who gets swept up into a skinhead gang after his father dies in the Falklands War. But the story was too good to leave hanging, so the creators blessed us with three miniseries that follow the characters as they navigate life, love, and the ever-changing cultural landscape of the late 80s and early 90s.
So, How Do We Watch This Bad Boy?
Here's the golden rule: watch them chronologically. It's like following your favorite dysfunctional family through the years, witnessing their triumphs and tribulations unfold. Here's the breakdown:
- This is England (2006 film): This is where it all begins. We meet Shaun, the gang, and get a taste of that 80s skinhead subculture.
- This is England '86 (2010 miniseries): It's 1986, Margaret Thatcher's in power, and the gang's got new obsessions – Thatcher bashing, breakdancing, and maybe a sprinkle of romance.
- This is England '88 (2011 miniseries): We're hurtling towards the end of the decade, and things are getting a little heavier. Racism, violence, and the AIDS crisis cast a shadow over the characters' lives.
- This is England '90 (2015 miniseries): The gang's all grown up (well, sort of), and it's the early 90s. Rave culture, acid house, and the question of who they've become loom large.
Bonus Tip: There's also a special called "This is England '90 – This is War" that bridges the gap between '88 and '90. But for the core story, stick to the main sequence.
"This is England" FAQ
1. How much time do I need to dedicate to this whole thing?
If you binge-watch everything, it'll take roughly 15 hours. But hey, who needs sleep when you've got a skinhead gang to follow?
2. Is it all violence and swearing?
There's definitely some of that, but there's also humor, heart, and a whole lot of 80s nostalgia. Think "Trainspotting" meets "The Wonder Years."
3. Do I need to be British to understand it?
While some slang might go over your head, the themes of friendship, identity, and growing up are universal. Plus, subtitles are your friend!
4. Is it a downer?
It can get emotional, but there are plenty of laugh-out-loud moments too. It's a rollercoaster ride, but ultimately a rewarding one.
5. Will I want to dress like a skinhead after watching it?
Probably not. Unless shellsuits make a comeback (which, please no).
So there you have it! Now you're armed with the knowledge to navigate the world of "This is England." Get ready for a wild ride, folks!
