The Last of England
Director: Derek Jarman
Actors: Tilda Swinton, Spencer Leigh, 'Spring' Mark Adley
PlotIn a decaying, dystopian vision of England, the narrative weaves through a series of fragmented, non-linear sequences exploring themes of loss, social decay, and disillusionment. The visuals oscillate between vivid, almost surreal imagery and grainy, stark depictions of urban collapse and personal anguish. The story unfolds primarily through symbolic and experimental scenes that depict the sense of despair and devastation, reflecting the anxieties of the post-industrial society. Central to the tale is a haunting exploration of identity, memory, and the sense of a fading heritage, as characters struggle to cope with their fractured realities amidst the backdrop of a fallen nation.
Through cross-cutting vignettes, the film follows several individuals, including an artist grappling with his purpose and a bride clad in white, symbolizing the corrosive impact of societal upheaval. Their lives are interspersed with harrowing reflections on the past and present, with flashbacks highlighting moments of tenderness juxtaposed against scenes of chaos. The sparse dialogue and evocative use of music enhance the melancholic atmosphere, drawing the audience into a meditative examination of loss and hopelessness. Bridging the personal and political, the narrative eloquently captures a nation's collective mourning while exploring intimate experiences of collapse and resilience.
Writers: Derek Jarman
Release Date: 18 Jul 1988
Runtime: 92 min
Rating: Unrated
Country: United Kingdom, West Germany
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
The Last of England's Kino Blu-ray transfer authentically preserves its gritty, dystopian aesthetic, though it lacks extras, making it ideal for avant-garde enthusiasts.
Read our review of The Last of England Blu-ray to find out more