British Cinema and a Divided Nation

British Cinema and a Divided Nation explores how contemporary British cinema portrays a divided nation in the wake of the Brexit referendum, examining the contest of ideologies and the negotiation of national identity.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 31 December 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

British Cinema and a Divided Nation delves into the examination of national representations within contemporary British cinema, set against the backdrop of escalating political tensions and deepening social divisions following the Brexit referendum of June 2016. The book explores the ways in which the clash of ideologies within media representations has unfolded since the post-2016 period, identifying the divisions within society that have been given narrative shape and cultural form in recent British films. Through comprehensive case studies of notable films such as Mary Queen of Scots, Peterloo, Darkest Hour, Sorry We Missed You, and Downton Abbey, the book raises the question of whether we are witnessing the negotiation of a new relationship with the broader world or merely a re-iteration of a longstanding British or English understanding of national identity.

Introduction:
The Brexit referendum of June 2016 marked a significant turning point in British politics and society, ushering in a period of heightened political tensions and deepening social divisions. The referendum resulted in the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union, a decision that has had far-reaching implications for the country's identity, economy, and international relations. In the wake of this seismic event, British cinema has played a crucial role in shaping public discourse and reflecting the changing social and political landscape.

British Cinema and a Divided Nation:
British Cinema and a Divided Nation examines the representations of the nation found within contemporary British cinema, against this backdrop of rising political tensions and deepening social divisions. The book explores the ways in which the contest of ideologies within media representations has played out post-2016, identifying the divisions within society that have been given narrative shape and cultural form within recent British films.

Divisions within Society:
The book identifies several divisions within society that have been given narrative shape and cultural form within recent British films. These divisions include those related to gender, race, class, and nationality. For example, films such as Mary Queen of Scots, Peterloo, Darkest Hour, Sorry We Missed You, and Downton Abbey have explored the complex relationships between different groups of people and the challenges they face in a rapidly changing world.

Negotiation of a New Relationship with the Wider World:
One of the central questions posed by the book is whether we are seeing the negotiation of a new relationship with the wider world, or simply a re-iteration of a long-standing British or English understanding of national identity. The case studies of major films such as Mary Queen of Scots, Peterloo, Darkest Hour, Sorry We Missed You, and Downton Abbey provide valuable insights into this debate. These films explore the complexities of British history, culture, and politics, and they raise questions about the role of the nation in the global context.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, British Cinema and a Divided Nation is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the representations of the nation within contemporary British cinema. The book identifies the divisions within society that have been given narrative shape and cultural form within recent British films, and it questions whether we are witnessing the negotiation of a new relationship with the wider world or merely a re-iteration of a long-standing British or English understanding of national identity. The book is a valuable contribution to the field of cinema studies and will be of interest to scholars, students, and film enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 532g
Dimension: 164 x 244 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474481021