The Transformation of Skinhead Culture in Shane Meadows's This is England (1983)

Abstract

In my thesis I examine the transformation of skinhead culture as rendered in Shane Meadows’ This is England by highlighting the alternative nature of the two gangs, including appearance, conflict handling, ways of entertainment. I also describe the changes in attitudes and behavior with a keen eye on Shaun’s, the boy character’s, own transformation, what I regard as a narrative of losing his innocence. Finally I examine the cinematic and narrative strategies employed by the movie, such as rites, symbols, music and aesthetic techniques.