This Is England '86

Synopsis

This Is England '86 is a compelling British television drama miniseries that serves as a sequel to Shane Meadows' acclaimed 2006 film "This Is England." Set in the mid-1980s, the series delves deeper into the lives of the original film's characters, portraying the social and economic struggles of working-class England. With Joseph Gilgun reprising his role as Woody, the story explores themes of youth, friendship, love, and the challenges of growing up amid the turbulent backdrop of Thatcher's Britain. Known for its gritty realism and authentic portrayal of the era, This Is England '86 captivates audiences by intimately examining the personal dramas that unfold against a broader cultural and political landscape.

Cast

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  Joseph Gilgun

  Richard 'Woody' Woodford

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  Vicky McClure

  Lol

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  Stephen Graham

  Combo

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  Thomas Turgoose

  Shaun

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  Andrew Ellis

  Gadget

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  Andrew Shim

  Milky

Reviews

This Is England '86 has garnered widespread acclaim from critics, praised for its powerful storytelling and nuanced character development. On IMDb, it holds an impressive rating of 8.3/10, reflecting strong audience appreciation. Critics from The Guardian highlighted its "authentic depiction of 1980s working-class life," calling it "a brilliant continuation of the original film that thoughtfully expands its themes." The Independent commended the series for its "sharp writing and honest performances," particularly lauding Joseph Gilgun's compelling portrayal. Rotten Tomatoes does not have a formal score for the miniseries, but audience reviews often cite its "emotional depth and strong ensemble cast." Conversely, some reviewers mentioned that the slow pacing might not appeal to all viewers, with The Telegraph noting it "demands patience but rewards with genuine insight." Overall, This Is England '86 is widely regarded as a moving and culturally significant drama that successfully builds upon its predecessor's legacy while making a distinctive impact of its own.