Yorkshire, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has long been a source of inspiration for filmmakers. Its rugged moors, historic towns, and bustling cities have been immortalized in film, capturing the essence of Northern England. From contemporary stories to classic adaptations, the landscape and society of Yorkshire has played a pivotal role in bringing various films to life. Whether it’s through gripping drama, dark comedy, or touching coming-of-age tales, these films not only entertain but also show the beauty of this English county. Without further ado, let’s take a look at the ten best films set in Yorkshire.
10. This Sporting Life – Lindsay Anderson (1963)
“This Sporting Life,” directed by Lindsay Anderson, tells the compelling and turbulent story of Frank Machin, a miner in Yorkshire who finds an unexpected escape from his grueling life through rugby. His talent for the sport not only propels him into a new world of fame and fortune but also challenges his personal perceptions and values. However, Frank struggles to reconcile his working-class identity with the demanding and often conflicting expectations and pressures of his new athletic celebrity status. The film explores themes of ambition, identity, and the often-overlooked harsh realities of sports stardom.
Set against the rugged, industrial landscape of 1960s Northern England, “This Sporting Life” stands as a powerful example of British New Wave cinema. The film uses the gritty Yorkshire setting as a reflective canvas to mirror Frank’s internal conflict. The stark black-and-white cinematography not only intensifies the emotional depth of the story but also paints a vivid picture of the era, while the raw performances, particularly by Richard Harris as Frank, bring a relentless intensity to the screen. Lindsay Anderson’s direction creates a narrative that is simultaneously a sports drama and a profound exploration of personal struggle and the challenging journey towards self-realization.
9. Wuthering Heights – Andrea Arnold (2011)
Andrea Arnold’s “Wuthering Heights” offers a raw and emotional interpretation of Emily Brontë’s classic novel. Set on the hauntingly beautiful and often moody windswept moors of Yorkshire, the story revolves around the tumultuous relationship between Catherine Earnshaw and Heathcliff, an orphan taken in by Catherine’s father. The film captures their passionate but doomed love affair, set against a landscape that is as wild and untamed as their own emotions, mirroring the chaos and fervor of their connection. Arnold’s version emphasizes the unpolished nature of their relationship, steering clear of typical romantic idealization.
Arnold’s adaptation is notable for its realism and minimalistic approach, which strips the story to its emotional core. The moors are not just a setting but an integral and dynamic character in the story, reflecting the emotions of the protagonists and making this one of the best films set in Yorkshire. The use of natural lighting and handheld camerawork not only creates an immersive and immediate experience for the viewer but also enhances the authenticity and urgency of the narrative. The performances, particularly by the actors playing the younger versions of Catherine and Heathcliff, are deeply compelling, capturing the essence of Brontë’s complex characters with remarkable subtlety and a raw intensity that resonates throughout the film.
8. The Selfish Giant – Clio Barnard (2013)
“The Selfish Giant”, directed by Clio Barnard, unveils the gritty and compelling story of two teenage boys, Arbor and Swifty, who live in contemporary Yorkshire. They find themselves increasingly drawn into the world of scrap metal collection as a means to find some respite and purpose to escape their troubled school lives and difficult home situations. The film follows their journey as they begin working for a local scrap dealer, a path that leads them into not only challenging but also often perilous situations. Barnard’s narrative expertly navigates the complexities of friendship, morality, and survival in a tough economic landscape.
In this film, the Yorkshire setting not only plays a crucial role but also reflects the harsh realities of the characters’ lives. Barnard uses a blend of professional and non-professional actors to enhance the realism and lend authenticity to the story, with the performances exceptionally capturing the raw emotions and struggles of the young protagonists. The cinematography not only captures the bleak beauty of the industrial landscapes but also effectively adds a visual layer to the narrative. The film is celebrated for its honest portrayal of the hardships faced by its characters, offering a deeply insightful look into a seldom-seen side of British society.
7. The Damned United – Tom Hooper (2009)
“The Damned United”, directed by Tom Hooper, presents the dramatic story of Brian Clough’s infamous 44-day tenure as the manager of Leeds United Football Club in 1974. Clough, portrayed with finesse and intensity by Michael Sheen, is a brash and confident manager who aims to revolutionize Leeds United but soon realizes he faces immense challenges and conflicts along the way. The film captures his struggle to impose his vision on the team and the internal conflicts that arise, illustrating the turbulent world of football management. Hooper brings together Clough’s professional challenges with his personal demons and ambitions, creating a multifaceted portrait of a complex individual.
Set during the time of 1970s Yorkshire, “The Damned United” not only captures the essence of British football culture of the era but also illustrates the regional pride and identity that come with it. The film is notable for its sharp script, which balances drama, humor, and historical accuracy. Sheen’s portrayal of Clough is a standout, bringing charisma and depth to the character along with a palpable sense of passion and determination. The film’s attention to detail in recreating the period and the world of English football immerses the viewer in the era, making it one of the best films set in Yorkshire.
6. An American Werewolf in London – John Landis (1981)
In “An American Werewolf in London,” directed by John Landis, two American tourists, David and Jack, find themselves in a nightmarish situation when they encounter a terrifying creature while backpacking through the Yorkshire moors. This encounter sets off a series of chilling events, with a focus on David, who soon realizes that he is undergoing unsettling changes and experiencing haunting visions. The film combines horror and dark humor, as David grapples with the horrifying possibility that he may be turning into a werewolf, navigating a reality far removed from anything he ever imagined. Landis’ film is a unique blend of scares and laughs, set against an iconic British backdrop that enhances the film’s unsettling mood.
The Yorkshire setting in “An American Werewolf in London” is pivotal, contributing significantly to the film with an atmosphere of eerie isolation that amplifies the horror elements. Landis’ direction is a masterclass in blending genres, seamlessly transitioning between moments of terror and comedy with a skill that keeps viewers both on the edge of their seats and chuckling. The special effects, particularly the transformation scenes, were groundbreaking for their time and still evoke awe and terror in audiences today. The film stands out due to its innovative approach to the werewolf legend, making it a cult classic and a standout in the horror genre.
5. The Arbor – Clio Barnard (2010)
“The Arbor,” directed by Clio Barnard, is a groundbreaking documentary-style film that tells the story of playwright Andrea Dunbar and her life on the Buttershaw estate in Bradford, Yorkshire. The film employs an innovative approach, blending interviews with actors lip-syncing to audio recordings of the real people, a method that adds a layer of emotional depth and realism to the narrative. It portrays Dunbar’s turbulent life experiences, reflected in her raw and honest writing, and uncovers the deep and lasting effects of her life and work. “The Arbor” is as much an exploration of Dunbar’s work as it is a portrayal of the challenges faced by her family and community.
Barnard’s film is a thought-provoking piece that boldly pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The decision to use actors to mime the words of real people not only adds a powerful and somewhat surreal quality to the narrative but also blurs the line between documentary and drama. This technique, combined with footage of the actual Buttershaw estate, creates an immersive experience, bringing viewers closer to the reality of the subjects’ lives. The film is celebrated for its creative approach to filmmaking and its insightful look into the lives of people often marginalized in society, making it one of the best films set in Yorkshire.
4. Tyrannosaur – Paddy Considine (2011)
In “Tyrannosaur”, directed by Paddy Considine, the story unfolds around Joseph, a man consumed by violence and anger, living in a deprived area of Yorkshire. He forms an unlikely friendship with Hannah, a charity shop worker who beneath her seemingly composed exterior, hides her own personal turmoil beneath a facade of Christian faith and positivity. Their relationship develops, unraveling layer by layer to reveal their complex and troubled pasts. The film explores themes of redemption, anger, and the possibility of change in a harsh environment, offering a raw and unfiltered look at the human condition.
The Yorkshire setting in “Tyrannosaur” is integral to the narrative, actively reflecting the gritty reality of the characters’ lives. Considine’s direction is bold and uncompromising, unflinching in its portrayal of raw human emotions and the harshness of life on the fringes of society. The performances, particularly by Peter Mullan as Joseph and Olivia Colman as Hannah, are deeply moving, effectively capturing the vulnerability and resilience of their characters. The film is notable for its honest and unapologetic look at the struggles of its characters, effortlessly creating a narrative that is stark yet compelling, presenting a view of life in Yorkshire that is both unsettling and deeply engaging.
3. Four Lions – Chris Morris (2010)
“Four Lions”, directed by Chris Morris, is a dark comedy that follows a group of inept British jihadists from Sheffield, Yorkshire. The film focuses on their misguided and chaotic attempts to carry out an act of terror, creating a narrative that is as absurd as it is thought-provoking. It humorously explores the dynamics within the group, their personal conflicts, and the absurdity of their terrorist ambitions, while simultaneously presenting a satirical critique of their actions. Chris Morris combines comedy with a more serious look at themes of extremism, miscommunication, and the misunderstandings of ideology, creating a film that is both entertaining and deeply reflective.
Set in urban Yorkshire, “Four Lions” uses its location to effectively ground its outlandish plot in a recognizable and relatable reality. Morris’ approach to the sensitive subject matter is both daring and thought-provoking, using satire to explore complex and controversial issues, making it one of the best films set in Yorkshire. The film’s humor is dark and insightful, challenging viewers to consider the underlying messages behind the laughter. The performances are a standout, with the actors bringing depth and humanity to their roles, making “Four Lions” a unique film that stands out for its bold narrative and creative execution.
2. Threads – Mick Jackson (1984)
“Threads”, directed by Mick Jackson, is a harrowing depiction of a nuclear attack on Britain, taking place in the city of Sheffield in Yorkshire. The story revolves around two families and their experiences as they bravely face the catastrophic events leading up to and following a nuclear explosion. The film presents a stark and graphic portrayal of the immediate effects of the blast, the long-term impact on society, and the desperate and relentless struggle for survival in a post-apocalyptic world. “Threads” is a powerful and disturbing exploration of the potential realities of nuclear warfare, painting an unforgettable picture of its catastrophic consequences.
The film’s setting in Yorkshire is crucial to its impact, sucessfully bringing the unimaginable horrors of nuclear war into a familiar and domestic context. Jackson’s direction is unyielding in its realism, boldly refusing to shy away from the brutal consequences of a nuclear conflict. The use of a mix of documentary-style footage and dramatic scenes not only adds to the film’s sense of urgency and authenticity but also enhances the emotional and visceral impact on the viewer. “Threads” is widely regarded for its uncompromising vision, leaving a lasting impression on its audience with its focus on the fragility of human civilization and the devastating effects of nuclear war.
1. Kes – Ken Loach (1969)
“Kes”, directed by Ken Loach, is a moving story set in Yorkshire, focusing on a young boy named Billy Casper who leads a difficult life in a mining town. Billy finds solace and a sense of purpose when he discovers and trains a kestrel, which he affectionately names Kes. Through his relationship with Kes, Billy experiences a temporary escape from the harsh realities of his everyday life, including the challenges he faces both at home and school, providing a much-needed respite from his struggles. The film is a touching portrayal of youth, freedom, and the escape provided by a connection with nature, offering a glimpse into the transformative power of companionship.
Ken Loach’s “Kes” is acclaimed for its realistic depiction of life in a Yorkshire mining town, capturing the struggles and small joys of working-class life. The film’s use of local, non-professional actors lends an authenticity that resonates with the viewer and brings a raw and unfiltered edge to the narrative. Billy’s bond with Kes is portrayed with a gentle sensitivity, eloquently highlighting the contrast between the boy’s grim reality and the freedom represented by the bird, symbolizing hope and resilience amidst adversity. “Kes” is celebrated for its heartfelt storytelling and the remarkable performance of its young protagonist, solidifying its place as one of the best films set in Yorkshire.
Summary
To summarise, here are the ten best films set in Yorkshire:
- This Sporting Life – Lindsay Anderson (1963)
- Wuthering Heights – Andrea Arnold (2011)
- The Selfish Giant – Clio Barnard (2013)
- The Damned United – Tom Hooper (2009)
- An American Werewolf in London – John Landis (1981)
- The Arbor – Clio Barnard (2010)
- Tyrannosaur – Paddy Considine (2011)
- Four Lions – Chris Morris (2010)
- Threads – Mick Jackson (1984)
- Kes – Ken Loach (1969)
