Cinematography:

The use of a high angle here on Shaun shows his sense of almost superiority in this scene; he is learning how to use racist slurs and he seems almost proud of it. It really shows the effect that combo has had on him, as he is shown as proud and confident using racist language.

Sound:

Sound in This Is England is interesting, because they use a lot of real music that would apply to the time it is set in; 1983. However, one noticeable thing is that at the beginning of the film during the montage, they show impactful things that were happening at the time, such as Margaret Thatcher, the Miners’ strike and Princess Diana and Prince Charles’ wedding. There isn’t much gore and violence to do with the Falkland’s War shown in this first montage, which connects well with the more upbeat reggae playing in the background. On the other hand, the montage that plays after Combo nearly killed Milky, the music playing is far more melancholy and orchestral, which, paired with the real footage from the Falkland’s War makes it feel far sadder.

Editing:

I think that the best use of editing in This Is England is when they have the St. George’s Cross edited over Combo and his group. It is especially poignant because it this flag is associated with England, and it’s almost saying that their racism and nationalism is what the flag represents, therefore, what England represents.

Mise en Scene:

I like the use of mise en scene in Shaun’s house because it makes it feel of the time period; 1983. It feels cluttered and lived in, which is always necessary when creating a living room scene, but also having the half-smoked cigarette emphasises the feeling that it is set in 1983, because it was common and a normalised thing to smoke indoors then. I also like how it is quite symmetrical as it gives a sense of order and balance while Shaun’s mother is trying to talk to him about something very sensitive.