Made in britain is a gritty play/movie that shows the mentality of some of the youth during Thatcherite Britain when the Tory Government were about greed and cared nothing for the high unenmployment rate and crime rate.Tim Roth plays a youth who feels that the system has let him down and rebels against all authority and anybody who wants to help him. The language is very hard which only adds to the quality of the film and the acting from Tim Roth is of the highest standard especially considering this was his first big project. It is suprisingly fresh and has not dated and is a good reminder of how thing were for some people in the early eighties and also how the youth didnt want to help themselves because they felt society owed them something because we had the worst government of the twentieth century. 8 out of 10.
53 Reviews
Up against the world
karl_consiglio14 January 2009
Finally got to watch this movie. So true its worth watching even just to watch those expressions. We got a young and promising Tim Roth here playing Trevor the juvenile delinquent skin head. I watched it a second time before deciding to write this review. The first time I felt for the guy, I always felt somewhat that way for the underdog star that rebels against the straight ways of the society we live in. However watching it a second time i realized how annoying he is and how true it is that nobody was giving him any trouble whatsoever and that indeed he was always the one to bring it on himself. Everybody around him does nothing but try to help, OK he says he does not need any help, wants to be left in peace to do whatever he wants, but does that include having him allow others to live in peace? I love it towards the end he really loses it.
An impressive debut performance.
Hey_Sweden30 March 2015
The extremely talented Tim Roth made his acting debut with this powerful little drama. Roth plays Trevor, a teen aged skinhead with no regard for the rules of society. As the story opens, he's being sent to a detention centre while authorities try to decide what to do about him. He doesn't have any real interest in changing his ways, and would prefer to spend his time stealing things, spouting racial hatred, and being a public nuisance in general.
One can tell that 'Made in Britain' was originally made for television. It doesn't attempt to be overtly cinematic, but then it doesn't need to. David Leland wrote the intelligent script, making this an "angry young man" story with a memorable central character. One watches this unfold, doubtful that Trevor will be redeemable at some point, and only vaguely hopeful. When officials try to show him the error of his ways, he shows no interest. His compulsive need to defy authority overrides everything, and he simply refuses to stay out of trouble.
Directed by Alan Clarke ("Scum"), and scored by anarchist musicians The Exploited, this gets a lot of juice from the magnetic performance by Roth. I'm sure people who watched 'Made in Britain' when it was new could sense a brilliant career in the making. Roth is also very nicely supported by Terry Richards, as the impressionable Errol, Bill Stewart, as Peter, Geoffrey Hutchings, as the superintendent, and Sean Chapman ("Hellraiser" 1 and 2) as Barry.
Highly recommended viewing.
Eight out of 10.
One can tell that 'Made in Britain' was originally made for television. It doesn't attempt to be overtly cinematic, but then it doesn't need to. David Leland wrote the intelligent script, making this an "angry young man" story with a memorable central character. One watches this unfold, doubtful that Trevor will be redeemable at some point, and only vaguely hopeful. When officials try to show him the error of his ways, he shows no interest. His compulsive need to defy authority overrides everything, and he simply refuses to stay out of trouble.
Directed by Alan Clarke ("Scum"), and scored by anarchist musicians The Exploited, this gets a lot of juice from the magnetic performance by Roth. I'm sure people who watched 'Made in Britain' when it was new could sense a brilliant career in the making. Roth is also very nicely supported by Terry Richards, as the impressionable Errol, Bill Stewart, as Peter, Geoffrey Hutchings, as the superintendent, and Sean Chapman ("Hellraiser" 1 and 2) as Barry.
Highly recommended viewing.
Eight out of 10.
Unforgettable
givnaw14 October 2002
Saw it years ago by accident on PBS. Thought it was a documentary. They've only shown it once, to my knowledge (probably because so many complained about the foul language and nasty attitude of Trevor. Very unappetizing to American mid-western WASP sensibilities.). An absolutely stupifyingly mind-blowing performance by Tim Roth. Once you see, you won't forget.
Enthralling movie but problematic for US viewers
aljohnso17 January 2005
Warning: Spoilers
I saw this film whilst studying in London, and though it isn't exactly pleasant, it does capture your imagination. Roth's performance is as brutal and realistic as everyone says, and the rough, hand-held style of the camera-work contributes to its documentary feel. I don't think I am alone when I say these things; however, I hesitate to talk about how this movie stacks up to other films about skinheads, particularly American HISTORY X. The fact that both movies include the nationality of the main characters says it all--as much as we might like to think that all skinheads are alike, insomuch as they are all equally stupid, Trevor wouldn't make sense in America and Derek Vinyard (Ed Norton's Chararter in AHX) wouldn't make sense in Britain. Each character is a unique product of their country's history, politics, racial attitudes, and ideas of self. Thus I don't think either character--or either movie--can really be evaluated in terms of the other. And while the lead performance is captivating, and might be worthwhile for Tim Roth fans (legend has it Tarantino was inspired to cast him in Reservoir Dogs after seeing this performance), I can see why this film has not been a big hit in the United States. As I said before, the issues discussed in the movie are specific to a particular moment in Britain's social history, and don't translate well. For example, the ending shows Trevor and his new black friend teaming up to assault a South-Asian merchant. This cross-racial animosity toward South-Asian immigrants is reflective of Britain' unique experience with multiculturalism, and wouldn't make much sense to Yanks, given our country's racial history and patterns of immigration. I would recommend this film for the lead performance, and perhaps for its potential to inform the viewer about certain aspects of Britain's multicultural history.
Bravura Performance. Finest Movie Ever Made for TV.
a.v. boy18 March 2001
Tim Roth blasted to the forefront of edgy screen actors with this bravura tour-de-force performance for British TV in 1982. Perhaps the finest work of an actor who has had many great performances since. It's a crying shame that most of his fans in North America have yet to see it.
This film blows me away. First saw it ages ago when Public TV in NYC daringly broadcast it unheralded and only one time. They've never shown it again, nor has it ever been shown elsewhere in the US to my knowledge. I was ecstatic recently when I managed to view the film again, for the first time in over 10 years, via a European DVD. Anyone who has seen this film knows what I mean when I say it is insane for it NOT to be released on this side of the Pond. Movies about violent youths and skinheads are not unknown over here, just not this good. The recent American History X, as fine as it was, doesn't manage a fraction of the raw intensity of Made in Britain.
Trevor, a bright, autonomous, 16 year-old is also a seething, out-of-control deeply antisocial skinhead. He's not part of a gang, not part of a clique, he's a totally alienated individual who sees himself as part of a movement. It's not enough to say that Roth is totally believable in the part. The part itself is way, way beyond your expectations when watching a film. Trevor "acts out", but Roth doesn't "act" Trevor, Roth IS Trevor for the duration of this film. Seeing Tim Roth for the first time in this film, you wouldn't initially be sure you were watching an actor play a part. For a while you might believe you were watching a real documentary about a berserk youth committing petty crimes and mayhem and oblivious to the camera. Only through the dramatic pace and development of the film and the inclusion of other, mere mortal, actors might you let the magic slip momentarily and suspect you were watching a fictional movie, but the intensity ratchets up again, and before you know it you're looking at the end-credits and wondering why it's over and wanting more, more!
Trevor on the surface is a deplorable human being: hateful, racist, selfish and violent. At the same time, he is resourceful, intelligent, and in some ways, fragile, yet in others, daring, nothing-left-to-lose. His behavior is self-destructive, his future is bleak. In short, he is fascinating and you spend the whole short 73-minute film alternately shocked, transfixed, amused, bewildered and yet, pulling for him.
If you've seen Tim Roth's other work, and you respect his abilities, you owe it to yourself to do whatever you have to do to see this film. You won't regret it. Meanwhile, someone should cut a deal to release this in North America so all of Tim Roth's hungry fans can see it!
This film blows me away. First saw it ages ago when Public TV in NYC daringly broadcast it unheralded and only one time. They've never shown it again, nor has it ever been shown elsewhere in the US to my knowledge. I was ecstatic recently when I managed to view the film again, for the first time in over 10 years, via a European DVD. Anyone who has seen this film knows what I mean when I say it is insane for it NOT to be released on this side of the Pond. Movies about violent youths and skinheads are not unknown over here, just not this good. The recent American History X, as fine as it was, doesn't manage a fraction of the raw intensity of Made in Britain.
Trevor, a bright, autonomous, 16 year-old is also a seething, out-of-control deeply antisocial skinhead. He's not part of a gang, not part of a clique, he's a totally alienated individual who sees himself as part of a movement. It's not enough to say that Roth is totally believable in the part. The part itself is way, way beyond your expectations when watching a film. Trevor "acts out", but Roth doesn't "act" Trevor, Roth IS Trevor for the duration of this film. Seeing Tim Roth for the first time in this film, you wouldn't initially be sure you were watching an actor play a part. For a while you might believe you were watching a real documentary about a berserk youth committing petty crimes and mayhem and oblivious to the camera. Only through the dramatic pace and development of the film and the inclusion of other, mere mortal, actors might you let the magic slip momentarily and suspect you were watching a fictional movie, but the intensity ratchets up again, and before you know it you're looking at the end-credits and wondering why it's over and wanting more, more!
Trevor on the surface is a deplorable human being: hateful, racist, selfish and violent. At the same time, he is resourceful, intelligent, and in some ways, fragile, yet in others, daring, nothing-left-to-lose. His behavior is self-destructive, his future is bleak. In short, he is fascinating and you spend the whole short 73-minute film alternately shocked, transfixed, amused, bewildered and yet, pulling for him.
If you've seen Tim Roth's other work, and you respect his abilities, you owe it to yourself to do whatever you have to do to see this film. You won't regret it. Meanwhile, someone should cut a deal to release this in North America so all of Tim Roth's hungry fans can see it!
Early Tim Roth....
tim-764-2918568 May 2012
I've always admired and liked Tim Roth, believing him to be one of the U.K's finest acting exports. I found this DVD at a local CashConverters for 99p and it sat on my shelf for a year.
Finally seeing it, it did not surprise me that within ten minutes, not only had skinhead Trevor (Roth) stolen a car but was also sniffing glue, with his room-mate from the open assessment detention centre that the Court had only just sent him to.
I so wanted not for this to be a catalogue of 'let's be as nasty racist criminals as we possibly can' but couldn't see how it would not be. As a pertinent statement on Thatcher's Capitalist Britain it certainly hits hard, with Roth being very believable and natural, his facial configurations often being a whole act in themselves.
The film does try and breakdown how the bright Trevor got to this stage in life, which to do in a credible way, is commendable. The 4:3 TV ratio, the natural lighting and '80s slightly dingy images suit the subject perfectly, having a near documentary feel. There's also a solid supporting cast of social workers, case workers etc that are familiar to British TV drama audiences.
The strong dialogue with 'f' words aplenty seem natural and often used with anger and menace. Made In Britain will be many people's worst kind of nightmare viewing, but let them keep their cosy Sunday night gentle 'drama'. This is true drama, not cotton-wool wrapped in caramel gooey stuff that is far too prevalent. For those who want - and appreciate - a roller-coasting journey down Reality Street, then this is the real deal.
Finally seeing it, it did not surprise me that within ten minutes, not only had skinhead Trevor (Roth) stolen a car but was also sniffing glue, with his room-mate from the open assessment detention centre that the Court had only just sent him to.
I so wanted not for this to be a catalogue of 'let's be as nasty racist criminals as we possibly can' but couldn't see how it would not be. As a pertinent statement on Thatcher's Capitalist Britain it certainly hits hard, with Roth being very believable and natural, his facial configurations often being a whole act in themselves.
The film does try and breakdown how the bright Trevor got to this stage in life, which to do in a credible way, is commendable. The 4:3 TV ratio, the natural lighting and '80s slightly dingy images suit the subject perfectly, having a near documentary feel. There's also a solid supporting cast of social workers, case workers etc that are familiar to British TV drama audiences.
The strong dialogue with 'f' words aplenty seem natural and often used with anger and menace. Made In Britain will be many people's worst kind of nightmare viewing, but let them keep their cosy Sunday night gentle 'drama'. This is true drama, not cotton-wool wrapped in caramel gooey stuff that is far too prevalent. For those who want - and appreciate - a roller-coasting journey down Reality Street, then this is the real deal.
Just adding to the praise...
Voxel-Ux11 March 2004
I first saw this episode of a few in the series when it was first released and was immediately taken by the story, as well as the performance of Tim Roth.
At the time I tried to find more things that Roth had done on his performance alone in Made In Britain but couldn't. Only years later, thanks to IMDB (cheers guys) did I realise that it was his first major role.
Back to the film. Set in the London I know I could relate to Trevor (Roth) as I was experiencing a similar thing at the time. A youth pushed into an attitude related to the Thatcher ideals of that time which kicked against the system of authority and its patronising values. The film (although intended as a television programme, but now can be viewed as a film in its own right) had all the zeitgeist required for one living in Britain, especially London, at that time. My friends and I spoke of it with much praise as we could relate to its sentiments. Events like the Brixton riots were indicative of such feelings.
Can this film still be relevant today? Frankly, yes. Britain was changing back in '81-'82 in many ways and appears to be swinging in a similar way once again. Only time will tell.
It is a gritty, documentary-style film that holds little back of an individual on a collision course with the imagined or real oppressor. Self-destructing because he feels it is his only freedom. Engaging and somewhat prophetic. You choose. I have not seen the film for many years now but relish the opportunity to view it again.
At the time I tried to find more things that Roth had done on his performance alone in Made In Britain but couldn't. Only years later, thanks to IMDB (cheers guys) did I realise that it was his first major role.
Back to the film. Set in the London I know I could relate to Trevor (Roth) as I was experiencing a similar thing at the time. A youth pushed into an attitude related to the Thatcher ideals of that time which kicked against the system of authority and its patronising values. The film (although intended as a television programme, but now can be viewed as a film in its own right) had all the zeitgeist required for one living in Britain, especially London, at that time. My friends and I spoke of it with much praise as we could relate to its sentiments. Events like the Brixton riots were indicative of such feelings.
Can this film still be relevant today? Frankly, yes. Britain was changing back in '81-'82 in many ways and appears to be swinging in a similar way once again. Only time will tell.
It is a gritty, documentary-style film that holds little back of an individual on a collision course with the imagined or real oppressor. Self-destructing because he feels it is his only freedom. Engaging and somewhat prophetic. You choose. I have not seen the film for many years now but relish the opportunity to view it again.
A show on TV shown 20 years ago, and still great.
BritishZombie18 May 2006
While listing to Skinnyman's album: Council Estate Of Mind, I was curious of a angry young man swearing at cursing at everything.
I bought the film since I'm also a fan of Tim Roth, and i'm very happy with my choice. Kick-a$$ film.
Skinhead Trevor wonders around London, nicking cars, attacking Pakis and being a bit of a *ucker really. Glue sniffing has obviously made him go insane and you watch his last few days before inevitably going to prison.
Pretty decent acting, and a great hooking plot. This is what started Tim's career.
Overall: 8.2/10
I bought the film since I'm also a fan of Tim Roth, and i'm very happy with my choice. Kick-a$$ film.
Skinhead Trevor wonders around London, nicking cars, attacking Pakis and being a bit of a *ucker really. Glue sniffing has obviously made him go insane and you watch his last few days before inevitably going to prison.
Pretty decent acting, and a great hooking plot. This is what started Tim's career.
Overall: 8.2/10
Thoughtful, honest masterpiece.
saintpap18 October 2001
I've seen this film a number of times over the last few years. The first time I ever saw it, I was an idealistic young scamp who'd done very well at school. Needless to say, I spent the entire film hoping that this desperately intelligent character would pull out of the spiral he'd got himself into.
A bit of personal history, which I don't normally supply, but in this case I believe it's pertinent. My grandfather hails from Pakistan, which is something that should make me despise this film, as Trevor, the main character, constantly harangues a Pakistani shopkeeper called Mr. Shanawaz. However, on repeated viewings I have consistently found this to be one of the best films ever made.
Roth plays a disaffected, supremely intelligent young man called Trevor who knows far more about the world than his "betters" would wish him to. His "betters" are social workers, and those responsible for making sure that he will eventually integrate into the wider British society.
Trevor is unrelenting and has no qualms about describing the society in which he lives. On my first viewing, I was horrified by his racist attitudes and the beliefs he subscribes to. However, the most important part of this film is Trevor's honesty. Honesty, however horrific it is, is Trevor's primary motivation. After watching it again and again, this is what comes through more than anything else. Trevor is uncompromising. He refuses to let society dictate his own opinions, even when that society kicks him and beats him. Trevor almost never misleads people, and practices his mantra almost to the letter. His integrity is never in doubt. Like him or hate him, you will respect the fact that he stands for his beliefs.
Made In Britain is a film about standing up for what you believe in, no matter how extreme those beliefs are. Trevor's beliefs are so compelling that he even convinces a black teenager ( Errol ) to shout "You baboons, get back to the jungle!". It also provides an incisive social commentary on the Britain of 1982. It isn't the integrated melting pot that government would have you believe it is. Following recent racial tension in Oldham and other towns in the North of England, the film's message seems particularly poignant now.
There are very few bad performances in this movie, the notable exception being the female teenagers in the JobCentre. Overall, it is a superb film that should be approached with an open mind - providing a message that all is not well in multi-racial Britain.
A bit of personal history, which I don't normally supply, but in this case I believe it's pertinent. My grandfather hails from Pakistan, which is something that should make me despise this film, as Trevor, the main character, constantly harangues a Pakistani shopkeeper called Mr. Shanawaz. However, on repeated viewings I have consistently found this to be one of the best films ever made.
Roth plays a disaffected, supremely intelligent young man called Trevor who knows far more about the world than his "betters" would wish him to. His "betters" are social workers, and those responsible for making sure that he will eventually integrate into the wider British society.
Trevor is unrelenting and has no qualms about describing the society in which he lives. On my first viewing, I was horrified by his racist attitudes and the beliefs he subscribes to. However, the most important part of this film is Trevor's honesty. Honesty, however horrific it is, is Trevor's primary motivation. After watching it again and again, this is what comes through more than anything else. Trevor is uncompromising. He refuses to let society dictate his own opinions, even when that society kicks him and beats him. Trevor almost never misleads people, and practices his mantra almost to the letter. His integrity is never in doubt. Like him or hate him, you will respect the fact that he stands for his beliefs.
Made In Britain is a film about standing up for what you believe in, no matter how extreme those beliefs are. Trevor's beliefs are so compelling that he even convinces a black teenager ( Errol ) to shout "You baboons, get back to the jungle!". It also provides an incisive social commentary on the Britain of 1982. It isn't the integrated melting pot that government would have you believe it is. Following recent racial tension in Oldham and other towns in the North of England, the film's message seems particularly poignant now.
There are very few bad performances in this movie, the notable exception being the female teenagers in the JobCentre. Overall, it is a superb film that should be approached with an open mind - providing a message that all is not well in multi-racial Britain.
Roth's performance is blistering and compelling
Colbridge20 September 2021
Like most Alan Clarke films this is raw, honest, uncompromising and often controversial as he tries to get to the nub of the issue and find the naked truth in David Leland's script. Here we see a young Tim Roth as a troubled young offender who dares challenge the authoritarian social workers who are responsible for him and the rules they impose making him feel trapped by the system.
Similar to what Alan Clarke did for borstals with his film Scum (1979), shining a critical spotlight on how things were run, it's done to a lesser affect here dealing with education and the social system and explores broader themes such as nationalism and identity but Roth's performance is blistering and compelling as he shows frustration and anger at the society he feels created him. Despite his thuggish skinhead appearance Roth's character Trevor is articulate and intelligent and often gets his point across to make a counter argument against those in authority however he is also stubbornly defiant, belligerent, racist and angry.
This made for TV movie is compelling and naturalistic, Clarke gets his handheld camera up close to the characters and to the problems, we feel Roth's anger but we're left to make our own minds up about what is presented to us.
Similar to what Alan Clarke did for borstals with his film Scum (1979), shining a critical spotlight on how things were run, it's done to a lesser affect here dealing with education and the social system and explores broader themes such as nationalism and identity but Roth's performance is blistering and compelling as he shows frustration and anger at the society he feels created him. Despite his thuggish skinhead appearance Roth's character Trevor is articulate and intelligent and often gets his point across to make a counter argument against those in authority however he is also stubbornly defiant, belligerent, racist and angry.
This made for TV movie is compelling and naturalistic, Clarke gets his handheld camera up close to the characters and to the problems, we feel Roth's anger but we're left to make our own minds up about what is presented to us.
Roth and Clarke ,very chilling.
che-295 June 2000
Alan Clarke's unflinching realism might be too much for some viewers.However ,'Made in Britain' is a definitive study of the criminal mind.Roth is right on the money(as always).The movie is so simplistic ,but that's why it works so well.The movie has a great feel ,it was constructed with a series of steadicam set ups.Clarke's camera follows Roth's character in a series of long takes.The movie doesn't really have a traditional structure,it just happens.A good introduction to Alan Clarke.
Over hyped - over praised.
Vondaz3 February 2011
Warning: Spoilers
I have to say that I was disappointed with the ending. I enjoyed the journey, but felt let down by where I got dropped off.
Actually, I say I enjoyed the journey, but actually even that was pointless. Trevor is an angry young man is he? More like Trevor is a moron (if only he'd been called Gordon). Why was he angry? Why was he rebellious? The superintendent gave a wonderful assessment of how he got to where he was. And it was all his own fault. No-one had put him there and no-one was forcing him to stay there. The script was not deep enough to give credence to Trevor's mindset.
Also, there are contradictions – such as Trevor's racism towards the Pakistan man and yet he openly cavorts with Errol. Yes he stitches him up in the end, but he's happy to be seen with him and takes him on his sprees. A true racist wouldn't be seen in the company of Errol.
Finally, and I know Roth fans will jump on me for this, but Roth is not that convincing as a hard-as-nails, scary skinhead. Yes he can snarl and yes he can shout and yes he can walk like he's meant to be hard, but it's not there in his eyes. He just doesn't convince.
If you want an example of someone who played a racist, with intelligence and scared the whatsit out of me – then look at Ed Norton in American History X.
And no – I am not American. I am British and grew up in the 70's and 80's in London.
Actually, I say I enjoyed the journey, but actually even that was pointless. Trevor is an angry young man is he? More like Trevor is a moron (if only he'd been called Gordon). Why was he angry? Why was he rebellious? The superintendent gave a wonderful assessment of how he got to where he was. And it was all his own fault. No-one had put him there and no-one was forcing him to stay there. The script was not deep enough to give credence to Trevor's mindset.
Also, there are contradictions – such as Trevor's racism towards the Pakistan man and yet he openly cavorts with Errol. Yes he stitches him up in the end, but he's happy to be seen with him and takes him on his sprees. A true racist wouldn't be seen in the company of Errol.
Finally, and I know Roth fans will jump on me for this, but Roth is not that convincing as a hard-as-nails, scary skinhead. Yes he can snarl and yes he can shout and yes he can walk like he's meant to be hard, but it's not there in his eyes. He just doesn't convince.
If you want an example of someone who played a racist, with intelligence and scared the whatsit out of me – then look at Ed Norton in American History X.
And no – I am not American. I am British and grew up in the 70's and 80's in London.
Brilliant British Drama
sandspider122 January 2003
I was lucky enough to get this on DVD for £5 and when I bought it, I knew little about it. Upon first viewing I was amazed at the performance of Tim Roth playing Trevor because he was believable and he brought realism to the character. I could see how this created controversy being broadcasted on television but this is commendable. The script is excellent by David Leland who went on to co-write Mona Lisa starring Bob Hoskins. It is these sorts of films and actors that make me proud to be British and I recommend this to everyone if you can find it. 9 out of 10.
Amazing Performance
chrystal_heart18 December 2005
WOW! I am a child of the Thatcher era, and as a 12 year old when this movie was made ( probably 14 to 15 by the time I viewed it! ) I had a small recollection of certain scenes from the movie ( mainly the pissing and shitting on the files ) I have to say, that now at the age of 35 and watching this movie for the second time I was totally blown away by Tim Roth's performance!! What a great actor! I have obviously seen him in other movies such as Pulp Fiction, but did not recognise him as a actor in his own right, Until now! I will definitely seek out all his roles on IMDb, and follow his career, I was blown away by his acting skills in Made in Britain, and will now recognise him as a stand alone actor rather than just another face amongst many talented actors ( which is what I thought during pulp fiction ) Thank you ENGLAND, British, U.K , for the most talented actors and the best of British films :o) This one is timeless to all of us who lived the 80's and more!
a must see film, no matter you religion, faith or background, the acting alone is worth a view
a must see film, no matter you religion, faith or background, the acting alone is worth a view
This film still hits hard.
Sleepin_Dragon14 June 2023
Our if control sixteen year old Trevor is sent to a Detention Centre, all efforts have been made to get the troubled teen to conform and abide by society's rules, he however refuses to accept.
First of all, it's been some time since I last saw this, aoni watched this morning with relatively fresh eyes, I imagine that this was a powerful statement piece back in 1982, I think forty years on it still packs a punch. A society where many feel as though they've been left behind, forgotten about.
It's quite a short film, but it flies by very quickly, it's well paced and gritty, it doesn't dip or lull for a second.
Trevor is racist, violent, thoughtless, angry and worse, doesn't care about what happens to himself let alone anyone else, but he's no fool, he's intelligent and quick witted.
Tim Roth is terrific as Trevor, he's delivered many brilliant performances over the years, this must rank up there with them.
A good supporting cast, The Bill's Eric Richards, Terry Richards and Sean Chapman are all very good.
If you enjoyed Scum, and haven't seen this, I'd highly recommend.
9/10.
First of all, it's been some time since I last saw this, aoni watched this morning with relatively fresh eyes, I imagine that this was a powerful statement piece back in 1982, I think forty years on it still packs a punch. A society where many feel as though they've been left behind, forgotten about.
It's quite a short film, but it flies by very quickly, it's well paced and gritty, it doesn't dip or lull for a second.
Trevor is racist, violent, thoughtless, angry and worse, doesn't care about what happens to himself let alone anyone else, but he's no fool, he's intelligent and quick witted.
Tim Roth is terrific as Trevor, he's delivered many brilliant performances over the years, this must rank up there with them.
A good supporting cast, The Bill's Eric Richards, Terry Richards and Sean Chapman are all very good.
If you enjoyed Scum, and haven't seen this, I'd highly recommend.
9/10.
Youth Against The System
dcmMovielover25 August 2016
Warning: Spoilers
"Made In Britain" follows Trevor, a 16 year old thug, thief, vandal, sociopath, over a three day period - but in this very short time frame his young life moves out of one phase and into another. Seemingly the consequences of his actions will have repercussions for the rest of his life and the phase he moves into is one destined to take him on a path to 'self destruction'.
Set in London, 1982, the film was based on a case study of a youth. Trevor in the story is a skinhead with a nazi swastika tattooed on his forehead. He espouses racism and nationalist rhetoric, and commits racially aggravated attack on a Pakistani household - although whether he is an outright racist is debatable, as his only 'friend' in the film, Errol, is a black youth.
The film begins with Trevor attending a court hearing, for an earlier attack on the Pakistani household. The motive for the crime appears to be racial. The court hearing adjourned, Trevor is taken by Harry, his social worker, to a Youth Assessment Hostel. Here Trevor will be assessed before returning to court for sentence and standing before the Magistrates charged with theft from a department store.
Trevor has the appearance of an unrepentant thug and hooligan - and espouses the rhetoric of a far-right nationalist, full of aggression and venom. However, as it unfolds during the film's central piece (a very long sequence between Trevor and the social workers) Trevor transpires to be intelligent. He has argument and structure to his rhetoric, he has sharp wit and an observant grasp of society beyond his years. By the end of the sequence, whether Trevor is the 'nazi' we thought him to be, is questionable.
Trevor, it would seem, is 'against authority' and namely against the British establishment - the system - although he prizes himself on his 'Britishness'. He is perhaps a kind of anarchic-patriot.
The film is a masterfully crafted and acted piece of cinematic drama. It is earthy and in your face, has fantastic energy - in part owing to skillful use of stedicam - and like most, if not all of Alan Clark's films, does not use music or score. There is a fast aggressive punk song used to very good effect but only in the film's opening and closing titles.
"Made In Britain" is a tour de force, set among only several back street London locations, with a minimal amount of characters. The characters, though some only occupy one or two scenes, are interestingly multi-layered, such as PC Anson - the thuggish, possibly sadistic policeman who beats Trevor in a cell. Anson is perhaps Trevor's counterpart but who instead has opted to work for the state rather than to rebel against it.
The acting is superb, first rate. The screen writing and direction are fantastic. Highly recommended.
Set in London, 1982, the film was based on a case study of a youth. Trevor in the story is a skinhead with a nazi swastika tattooed on his forehead. He espouses racism and nationalist rhetoric, and commits racially aggravated attack on a Pakistani household - although whether he is an outright racist is debatable, as his only 'friend' in the film, Errol, is a black youth.
The film begins with Trevor attending a court hearing, for an earlier attack on the Pakistani household. The motive for the crime appears to be racial. The court hearing adjourned, Trevor is taken by Harry, his social worker, to a Youth Assessment Hostel. Here Trevor will be assessed before returning to court for sentence and standing before the Magistrates charged with theft from a department store.
Trevor has the appearance of an unrepentant thug and hooligan - and espouses the rhetoric of a far-right nationalist, full of aggression and venom. However, as it unfolds during the film's central piece (a very long sequence between Trevor and the social workers) Trevor transpires to be intelligent. He has argument and structure to his rhetoric, he has sharp wit and an observant grasp of society beyond his years. By the end of the sequence, whether Trevor is the 'nazi' we thought him to be, is questionable.
Trevor, it would seem, is 'against authority' and namely against the British establishment - the system - although he prizes himself on his 'Britishness'. He is perhaps a kind of anarchic-patriot.
The film is a masterfully crafted and acted piece of cinematic drama. It is earthy and in your face, has fantastic energy - in part owing to skillful use of stedicam - and like most, if not all of Alan Clark's films, does not use music or score. There is a fast aggressive punk song used to very good effect but only in the film's opening and closing titles.
"Made In Britain" is a tour de force, set among only several back street London locations, with a minimal amount of characters. The characters, though some only occupy one or two scenes, are interestingly multi-layered, such as PC Anson - the thuggish, possibly sadistic policeman who beats Trevor in a cell. Anson is perhaps Trevor's counterpart but who instead has opted to work for the state rather than to rebel against it.
The acting is superb, first rate. The screen writing and direction are fantastic. Highly recommended.
A Star Is Born In A Drama Britain No Longer Makes
Theo Robertson15 July 2013
Director Alan Clarke always had a knack for spotting raw , young British acting talent . He gave breakthrough roles to Ray Winstone in SCUM and Gary Oldman in THE FIRM and in 1982 gave an unknown actor called Tim Roth the lead in this television drama from David Leland . Somewhat surprisingly it took a few years after these breakthrough roles for these three actors to become better known but the star quality all of them showed is in luminous abundance and that's all down to Clarke
Roth plays Trevor a 16 year old Nazi skinhead and what Leland's script is superb at is not portraying Trevor as some sort of misunderstood youth who is just in need of a mere cuddle but in need of some harsher measures . It makes the ironic point that bleeding heart liberals are incapable of understanding that in dealing with violent sociopaths then perhaps draconian solutions themselves bordering on fascism may be needed
Indeed Leland's script is replete with irony . Trevor painted not so much as a demon but as someone who sees himself as being merely more honest than society demands lives his life in an honest way . He is racist and wears his racism as a violent badge of honour because it's only hypocrites who don't do this . Appearing in court his caustic attitude and lack of remorse is again a badge of honour . After all it's very cowardly to show repentance and sorrow when you're in court facing serious charges especially when you're not sorry in the slightest . The only difference between Trevor and the average teenager is that Trevor's resentment and anger at the world manifests itself by actions . Remembering my own teenage years wanting to strike back at the oppressive and hypocritical and frankly BS nature of society there is an aspect of recognition that means I could empathise with Trevor and like SCUM this television play was a very memorable for any teenager who saw it . Anyone who puts a concrete slab through a jobcentre window instantly becomes a hero to an umemployed teenager
MIB does have the cajones to point out that some people are beyond redemption . You can condition people all you like but at the day some people will be always be racist ( Regardless of their colour ) and violent thugs . To their way of thinking it's the rest of society who are the bad guys because society is contradictory and ruled by hypocits and cowards . The only thing these people respect is a bloody big stick which may shock the bleeding heart liberals but is perhaps the only solution to the problem . If MIB is making the point that the solution is that there are no solutions it does so brilliantly . If there's any reason to be sad watching this it's only to lament how gutless British television has become in the 21st Century . 30 years ago Britannia ruled the television airwaves but not anymore
Roth plays Trevor a 16 year old Nazi skinhead and what Leland's script is superb at is not portraying Trevor as some sort of misunderstood youth who is just in need of a mere cuddle but in need of some harsher measures . It makes the ironic point that bleeding heart liberals are incapable of understanding that in dealing with violent sociopaths then perhaps draconian solutions themselves bordering on fascism may be needed
Indeed Leland's script is replete with irony . Trevor painted not so much as a demon but as someone who sees himself as being merely more honest than society demands lives his life in an honest way . He is racist and wears his racism as a violent badge of honour because it's only hypocrites who don't do this . Appearing in court his caustic attitude and lack of remorse is again a badge of honour . After all it's very cowardly to show repentance and sorrow when you're in court facing serious charges especially when you're not sorry in the slightest . The only difference between Trevor and the average teenager is that Trevor's resentment and anger at the world manifests itself by actions . Remembering my own teenage years wanting to strike back at the oppressive and hypocritical and frankly BS nature of society there is an aspect of recognition that means I could empathise with Trevor and like SCUM this television play was a very memorable for any teenager who saw it . Anyone who puts a concrete slab through a jobcentre window instantly becomes a hero to an umemployed teenager
MIB does have the cajones to point out that some people are beyond redemption . You can condition people all you like but at the day some people will be always be racist ( Regardless of their colour ) and violent thugs . To their way of thinking it's the rest of society who are the bad guys because society is contradictory and ruled by hypocits and cowards . The only thing these people respect is a bloody big stick which may shock the bleeding heart liberals but is perhaps the only solution to the problem . If MIB is making the point that the solution is that there are no solutions it does so brilliantly . If there's any reason to be sad watching this it's only to lament how gutless British television has become in the 21st Century . 30 years ago Britannia ruled the television airwaves but not anymore
The ending was disappointing
alfiebeaut1 December 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Although the film was OK, I thought the ending wasn't very good. I get the whole 'stand-up for what you believe in' stuff but it doesn't tell you what happened after he got smacked in the private parts with a baton at the end. I mean, did he go to Borsal and clean up his act? I think I wasted a good 1hr 15mins watching it. I suppose I expected something similar to 'scum' or 'this is england' and it disappoints me to say the film let me down. It had no real ending at all and all it gives out is a message that racial slurs are bad and you should keep your opinions to yourself. Yes, the shock factors there but all in all, it was a great disappointment considering it had lots of good reviews.
The Eighties as I remember them
Lexo-227 August 1999
From the minute Made in Britain kicks off, with a 17-year-old Tim Roth with skinhead and a swastika tattoo between his eyebrows, slouching into the juvenile court to the strains of The Exploited, the energy never flags. Clarke's patented loping Steadicam follows Trevor (Roth) as he goes from assessment centre to job centre to sniffing glue with a fellow ne'er-do-well to stealing a car and throwing bricks through a Pakistani's front window, seemingly bent on pushing the system to its limits. Trevor doesn't give a f***, and in an amazing second act, set entirely in a basement room, he tells the authorities what he thinks of them: "I'm a star, mate. I'm in exactly the right place at the right time."
Trevor is hateful - he's racist, bullying, utterly selfish and dangerous, but he's also so bright and eloquent that the main feeling on watching the film is wonder at a society that could possible have produced people like this. David Leland, who wrote the film, speculated years later that Trevor would probably have gone on to work in the Stock Exchange in the late Eighties - he might well have been one of the well-heeled cronies of Gary Oldman's Bez in Clarke's 1988 football hooliganism film, The Firm. In the depressed and fearful Britain of 1982, Trevor's manic energy and contempt has no outlet - once Thatcherite policies had helped to boost the British economy, his disbelief in "society" would have been totally at home on the stock market. As Thatcher famously remarked, "There is no such thing as society", and Made in Britain shows how she caused such a state of affairs to come about.
It's also very funny, in a sick kind of way.
Trevor is hateful - he's racist, bullying, utterly selfish and dangerous, but he's also so bright and eloquent that the main feeling on watching the film is wonder at a society that could possible have produced people like this. David Leland, who wrote the film, speculated years later that Trevor would probably have gone on to work in the Stock Exchange in the late Eighties - he might well have been one of the well-heeled cronies of Gary Oldman's Bez in Clarke's 1988 football hooliganism film, The Firm. In the depressed and fearful Britain of 1982, Trevor's manic energy and contempt has no outlet - once Thatcherite policies had helped to boost the British economy, his disbelief in "society" would have been totally at home on the stock market. As Thatcher famously remarked, "There is no such thing as society", and Made in Britain shows how she caused such a state of affairs to come about.
It's also very funny, in a sick kind of way.
Good film, especially for Tim Roth fans
mejla_mej20 September 2001
This is a TV film by Alan Clarke but is just as good, if not better, than for example "The Firm" or "Scum" (I know many people might not agree on that)
You can sense from the start that it's a film by Alan Clarke and like Mike Leigh, the actors always seems to be at their best when working with Alan Clarke. This is true especially for Tim Roth in this film (his first role by the way) who has never been better. In fact I don't think I have seen a better performance by any other actor in any other film than Tim Roth´s acting here. This is partly due to the demanding role where he can show off his skills (a lot of anger) and because of Alan Clarke`s directing I suppose. After first seeing the film I thought that Tim Roth really was like this and that was the reason for his amazing performance. After seeing "Meantime" (by Mike Leigh) where he plays a quiet retard I realized that it wasn't so...
And for the film´s sake it's lucky that Tim Roth did as well as he did because this film had never worked without a good actor to portray Trevor. The whole film evolves around him and there is no real plot. It sometimes feels more like a documentary than a film and the one thing I can complain about is that there is no real story. But still it must be a good film since I still remember it this strongly.
The film is about the angry Skinhead teenager Trevor who seems to be in war with the world and hates everything - authorities, school, Pakis...
After throwing a brick through some poor Pakistani shop´s window he is sent to an assessment center, and it's here the film begins.
I'm not sure what to give this film. A part of me wants to give it 10/10 because I have seen it ten times and are still fascinated by it, but when I think and compare it to other good films I notice its lack of story and feel it might only deserve 5-6/10.
I can also feel like it romanticizes racists and racism but I guess that is only in the eye of the beholder...
I'll give it 9/10
You can sense from the start that it's a film by Alan Clarke and like Mike Leigh, the actors always seems to be at their best when working with Alan Clarke. This is true especially for Tim Roth in this film (his first role by the way) who has never been better. In fact I don't think I have seen a better performance by any other actor in any other film than Tim Roth´s acting here. This is partly due to the demanding role where he can show off his skills (a lot of anger) and because of Alan Clarke`s directing I suppose. After first seeing the film I thought that Tim Roth really was like this and that was the reason for his amazing performance. After seeing "Meantime" (by Mike Leigh) where he plays a quiet retard I realized that it wasn't so...
And for the film´s sake it's lucky that Tim Roth did as well as he did because this film had never worked without a good actor to portray Trevor. The whole film evolves around him and there is no real plot. It sometimes feels more like a documentary than a film and the one thing I can complain about is that there is no real story. But still it must be a good film since I still remember it this strongly.
The film is about the angry Skinhead teenager Trevor who seems to be in war with the world and hates everything - authorities, school, Pakis...
After throwing a brick through some poor Pakistani shop´s window he is sent to an assessment center, and it's here the film begins.
I'm not sure what to give this film. A part of me wants to give it 10/10 because I have seen it ten times and are still fascinated by it, but when I think and compare it to other good films I notice its lack of story and feel it might only deserve 5-6/10.
I can also feel like it romanticizes racists and racism but I guess that is only in the eye of the beholder...
I'll give it 9/10
Its Like the Videography of My Life
tyndall305 July 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Well done BBC, back in the days when the Beeb did gritty dramas, they released made in Britain, directed by Alan Clark. Again he brought us another shocking drama, in the same niche of Roy Mintons 1977 drama Scum, again directed by Clark. A very memorable film, if you was a punk during the 70's or a chav during the 00's you can still represent with Trevors anti-authority figure. With a few recognisable characters from ITV's Crossroads and The Bill, and an excellent role played by Tim Roth, who most people seem to think started acting a week before Reservoir Dogs was cast. A timeless piece of TV history... I found it left me begging at the end of the drama, for more....
classic lines from the film are too many to mention, see Skinnymans album Council Estate of Mind for some good samples from the show...
I would give it a 9 out of 10
but on a Dazmondo scale, Being a violent thug as a youth, its a classic....
classic lines from the film are too many to mention, see Skinnymans album Council Estate of Mind for some good samples from the show...
I would give it a 9 out of 10
but on a Dazmondo scale, Being a violent thug as a youth, its a classic....
One of the best TV movies ever
tomgillespie200212 April 2016
Written by David Leland and directed by Alan Clarke, Made in Britain was originally broadcast on the BBC as part of a quartet of pieces dubbed Tales Out of School, all of which shared a focus on Britain's educational system. The films, all written by Leland, were a reaction to Margaret Thatchers political regime, and Made in Britain depicts the sort of character that was emerging from the increasingly violent and racist youth culture of the time.
When we first meet Trevor (Tim Roth in his debut), he is being tried in court for throwing a brick through a Pakistani family's window and shoplifting. Defiant to the very end, the 20 year-old neo-Nazi with a swastika tattooed on his face is sent to an Assessment Centre while his fate is determined. There he shares a room with a black teenager with learning difficulties who he takes with him to the Job Centre where he throws a brick through a window and steals a car. Trevor is told by the superintendent that time and time again Trevor has ensured his life will result in an endless cycle of poverty, crime and prison, and this is his last chance to make a choice.
Roth is a ferocious force of nature as Trevor. Alan Clarke's films always manage to turn its despicable lead into a charismatic, and almost sympathetic, human being. Normally, someone like Trevor would be an unbearable character to spend 70 minutes with, but Roth, Leland and Clarke make him into a fascinating embodiment of nihilism. The moment during his late-night rampage when he stares perplexed at a shop display of an idealistic family makes for a powerful social message. Everything is "bollocks" and everybody is a "wanker", but there's an empathy to be had with his complete disillusionment with the system. He doesn't even come across a particularly racist, it's almost like it's just another thing for him to hate. Surely one of the best TV movies ever, and a great achievement for the BBC during one of its most creative periods.
When we first meet Trevor (Tim Roth in his debut), he is being tried in court for throwing a brick through a Pakistani family's window and shoplifting. Defiant to the very end, the 20 year-old neo-Nazi with a swastika tattooed on his face is sent to an Assessment Centre while his fate is determined. There he shares a room with a black teenager with learning difficulties who he takes with him to the Job Centre where he throws a brick through a window and steals a car. Trevor is told by the superintendent that time and time again Trevor has ensured his life will result in an endless cycle of poverty, crime and prison, and this is his last chance to make a choice.
Roth is a ferocious force of nature as Trevor. Alan Clarke's films always manage to turn its despicable lead into a charismatic, and almost sympathetic, human being. Normally, someone like Trevor would be an unbearable character to spend 70 minutes with, but Roth, Leland and Clarke make him into a fascinating embodiment of nihilism. The moment during his late-night rampage when he stares perplexed at a shop display of an idealistic family makes for a powerful social message. Everything is "bollocks" and everybody is a "wanker", but there's an empathy to be had with his complete disillusionment with the system. He doesn't even come across a particularly racist, it's almost like it's just another thing for him to hate. Surely one of the best TV movies ever, and a great achievement for the BBC during one of its most creative periods.
Made in Britain - It's still relevant today
Dr_Kruger14 May 2008
Most commonly reviewed on the basis that it represents '80's Britain' and is 'Britain how I remembered it' this is a story of Trevor the 16 year old skinhead who has no respect for authority, anarchistic tendencies as a result of a misspent youth with no father figure, and a mean racist streak. This is supposed to be Britain in the 80's? well if that's the case I think it's a very tunnelled view.
I don't see all this as the main drive behind the film. I see it as more a story of what can happen to kids who stray from the path and get thrown into the system and struggle to get out. The impressive (what seemed like 15 minute)scene in the assessment centre where the officer chalks out Trevors options on the blackboard was really sad and made you realise how difficult he had made things for himself and how he was close to the point of no return. In this sense the film isn't stuck in the 80's and that's why I feel it is still relevant today.
Tim Roth was excellent and you can see why such a performance got him noticed.
It's not a long film, but doesn't need to be. They could've quite easily added an extra 20 minutes onto the end of the film to make it feature length, but the way it ended was a great example of letting the viewers make up their own mind about what was eventually going to happen to Trevor.
As much of a despicable character Trevor is you do feel sorry for him. Actually it's more like pity and you really are left thinking that, like many other nut cases on the street, he's going to end up a victim of the system because of his behaviour at such a young and vulnerable age
I don't see all this as the main drive behind the film. I see it as more a story of what can happen to kids who stray from the path and get thrown into the system and struggle to get out. The impressive (what seemed like 15 minute)scene in the assessment centre where the officer chalks out Trevors options on the blackboard was really sad and made you realise how difficult he had made things for himself and how he was close to the point of no return. In this sense the film isn't stuck in the 80's and that's why I feel it is still relevant today.
Tim Roth was excellent and you can see why such a performance got him noticed.
It's not a long film, but doesn't need to be. They could've quite easily added an extra 20 minutes onto the end of the film to make it feature length, but the way it ended was a great example of letting the viewers make up their own mind about what was eventually going to happen to Trevor.
As much of a despicable character Trevor is you do feel sorry for him. Actually it's more like pity and you really are left thinking that, like many other nut cases on the street, he's going to end up a victim of the system because of his behaviour at such a young and vulnerable age
This movie was rotten.
toy_soldiers23 April 2009
Warning: Spoilers
To those of you who gave this movie a good rating, you can go on all you want about how the characters shocked and captivated you all you like. I was bored out of my freaking mind, not to mention disturbed.
Nothing about the performances were memorable. Nothing about the characters enticed me. It was 70 odd minutes of cursing, spitting, growling. The character of Trevor was hardly intelligent or resourceful. He was just a dumb sack of feces that liked to toss bricks, and kick and spit like a mongrel. His lines were not clever, in fact everything about him was pathetic. There was no mood, the lighting was flat, the way it was shot and directed was as stiff and drumming as the social workers and councilors in the movie.
If you want to experience human (and cinematic) garbage in all its glory, go ahead, waste your money and life and see this movie.
Nothing about the performances were memorable. Nothing about the characters enticed me. It was 70 odd minutes of cursing, spitting, growling. The character of Trevor was hardly intelligent or resourceful. He was just a dumb sack of feces that liked to toss bricks, and kick and spit like a mongrel. His lines were not clever, in fact everything about him was pathetic. There was no mood, the lighting was flat, the way it was shot and directed was as stiff and drumming as the social workers and councilors in the movie.
If you want to experience human (and cinematic) garbage in all its glory, go ahead, waste your money and life and see this movie.
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