This is a film from british director Shane Meadows. It tells story of a young boy, Shaun, in the early 80s who gets caught up in a violent and racist gang known as "skinheads". They take him under their wing and not konwing better, he goes along with it. Slowly he gets exposed to deep racial prejudice and horrible violence this group is emersed in.
This is a difficult film to watch. The character of shaun is set up as innocent and going through some hard times in his family life having jus lost his dad. So to see him swept up in a world so far away from his personality adds to the dramatic effect and general effect of the film. In terms of acting, there is not one bad word i can say, all are fantastic. Though the subject matter is very serious Shane meadows mainly through Shaun finds in certain way to find humour which makes for a break from what is a very serious and uncompromising film.
Apart from some odd subplots , mainly Shaun's friendship/relationship with punk girl Smelly , though odd, it does kind of work and does provide for some of the lighter moments. especially a scene of kissing in a shed and when she turns up at his house and waits for him with his mum ("it kind of ryhms..it does though right??")
In all in all it is brilliantly directed, and handled overall well given the subject. I will warn you it is a tough watch, especially the scene where the main leader of the group finally snaps and performs a disgusting and violent attack. This is one of few times i have felt geniunely uneasy while watching a film.
this is a strong film with strong cast and direction. In my opinon, a strong contender for best movie of 2007, even this early on.
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