This is England - Representations

Representation of masculinity


The foremost representation of masculinity in This is England is the character of Combo. The character eventually manipulates our young protagonist Shaun into the Skinhead culture. This induction into the lifestyle is demonstrated through the use of montage, as Shaun takes part in racist, aggressive activity along with Combo and his gang.

This first shot represents masculinity as hand-in-hand with aggression. Shaun, Combo and his gang march in unison together towards camera, some of the characters strutting with their hands in their pockets, signifying their irreverence towards other people and aggressive attitude, as if expressing this 'devil may care' philosophy to the audience themselves. Their movement in a group also expresses that not only is appearing confident and cool a part of masculinity, but also appearing as a unit or group emphasising their shared ideologies and values. They appear dangerous, a huge impact made through their appearance as a gang, rather than as individuals. Walking towards camera makes an impact on the audience as well, as the positioning increases the group's hostility towards the audience and other people in the world of the film itself.

However, this representation is almost one minute later subverted and challenged, as Combo lovingly pats young Shaun on the head and puts his arm around the boy's shoulder, making him laugh, as they smile and continue walking. This puts Combo in the position of surrogate father figure for Shaun, connecting with him on the basic level of touch and by making him laugh. This representation suggests that masculinity is not just aggression or dominance, but being loving, especially to the people you keep close. Combo sees himself in Shaun and he expresses his care, even if it is unorthodox and too adult for a boy of that age.