A cult classic film praised as an ’emotional wallop’ of a movie is broadcasting on Film 4 this evening.

This Is England, which debuted in 2006, boasts an all-star cast featuring newcomer Thomas Turgoose alongside Stephen Graham, Jack O’Connell and Vicky McClure. The movie proved enormously successful and subsequently spawned a television series.

Produced on a modest £1.5 million budget, it garnered multiple accolades, including a BAFTA for Best British Film and the British Independent Film Award for Best British Independent Film.

The story centres on Shaun (Thomas Turgoose), whose father perished in the Falklands War. The youngster gains acceptance from a group of skinheads after standing up to their mockery, resulting in his adoption into their circle.

Complications arise with the return of Combo (Stephen Graham), a bigoted former prisoner. As the group splits into opposing camps, Shaun aligns himself with Combo and tragically views him as a paternal substitute, reports <a href=”https://www.mirror.co.uk/tv/tv-news/one-greatest-british-films-21st-36334153″ rel=”Follow” target=”_self”>the Mirror</a>.

Writer and director Shane Meadows based the narrative on his own upbringing, examining life in working-class England throughout the 1980s. The movie became an instant sensation, earning widespread acclaim and numerous five-star reviews.

One cinema enthusiast said on Rotten Tomatoes: “A brilliant piece of filmmaking. Troubling and difficult to watch but superb plot and some sensational acting from everyone to be fair. A rare film without a weak performance. Felt all too disturbingly real.

“Crazily realistic, relatable, and emotional. Brilliant acting and an accurate portrayal of the time make for an excellent drama,” gushed a second viewer.

Another said: “Great cast, feels real, awesome soundtrack, you must watch the TV show from the same director, cast and continuation of the movie story. Rough, funny, stressful, a real experience.

“Stephen Graham at his best . Great cast great story . Good music,” praised another.

One review said “Blending a coming-of-age story with social commentary, Shane Meadows has directed a film that packs an emotional wallop with thought-provoking themes and dialogue, powered by the performances of Thomas Turgoose and Stephen Graham.”

Meanwhile, another review simply urged: “No need. Just watch.”

Others have highlighted the ‘brutal’ and unflinching examination of 1980s skinhead culture, with one viewer noting: “Brilliant and brutal. Clearly shows the closely related paths available to young people at the time and how different the outcomes could be. A great example of recent British cinema.”

Another echoed similar sentiments, adding: “This is one of those films that truly gets deep underneath your skin. I remember seeing this film years ago, and still, every time I watch it, it has the same overwhelming effect.”

This Is England is on Film 4 at 9pm on December 4.