british new wave
est. 1950s – 1960s
The British New Wave, also known as the Kitchen Sink movement, was a transformative era in British cinema that emerged in the late 1950s and continued till the late 1960s. It was a period marked by a fresh, raw, and socially conscious approach to filmmaking that defied the conventions of British cinema of the time.
Origins of the British New Wave
The post-war period was marked by significant social changes, including the rise of the welfare state, the decline of the British Empire, and increasing class tensions. These factors provided a catalyst for a new kind of cinema.
The British New Wave was a response to the stagnation of British cinema in the post-World War II era, which was characterized by the dominance of period dramas, costume pieces and tales of the aristocracy. As a result, a group of young, working-class filmmakers emerged with films that reflected the gritty reality of post-war Britain, particularly the lives of the working class and the disaffected youth.
The movement was closely associated with a wave of “Angry Young Men” writers, such as John Osborne and Alan Sillitoe, whose plays and novels provided the source material for many of the films of this era. Notable examples include Osborne’s play “Look Back in Anger,” which was later adapted into a film. It also drew influence from prior film movements like Italian Neorealism, which emphasized naturalistic performances and on-location shooting.
Characteristics of the British New Wave
The main commitment of the British New Wave was social realism. Filmmakers aimed to portray the everyday lives and struggles of ordinary people. They used real locations set in working-class neighborhoods, non-professional actors, and naturalistic dialogue. The films of the British New Wave regularly critiqued the establishment, including the British class system, the educational system, and the political status quo.
The movement was known for its distinctive visual style, characterized by handheld cameras, location shooting, and a rejection of glossy studio production. The rough and unvarnished aesthetics matched the rawness of the narratives, while the use of real-life settings and natural light gave the films a documentary-like feel.
Filmmakers employed a range of narrative techniques, including non-linear storytelling and flashbacks. These innovations helped convey the inner lives of the characters and their complex emotions. The focus was on character-driven stories, while exploring the psychological and emotional landscapes of the protagonists.
Important Filmmakers and Films
Tony Richardson is considered to be one of the most important figures of the British New Wave. His film “Look Back in Anger” (1959), based on John Osborne’s play, is a seminal work of the movement and is credited with helping define it.
Another central figure of the movement was Karel Reisz, who directed the iconic film “Saturday Night and Sunday Morning” (1960) that showed the life of a young factory worker in Nottingham. It is considered a quintessential work of the movement and contributed to the portrayal of gritty, working-class life on screen.
Palme d’Or winner Lindsay Anderson, directed now cult classics “if….” (1968) and “This Sporting Life” (1963). His work highlighted the alienation and disaffection with the educational and healthcare systems experienced by the British population during this period.
Legacy and Influence of the British New Wave
The British New Wave, with its gritty portrayal of working-class life, critical examination of societal issues, and narrative innovation, remains a pivotal chapter in the history of European cinema. Filmmakers used their craft to capture the essence of post-war Britain, contributing to a movement that aimed for a more realistic and socially conscious approach to filmmaking. The influence of the British New Wave is very much felt in the contemporary British cinema, but can also be seen in American independent cinema, where directors such as John Cassavetes drew inspiration from its realist style.
Beyond its direct impact on filmmaking techniques and themes, the British New Wave played a crucial role in democratizing the film industry. It opened doors for new voices and stories that had previously been marginalized or ignored. By focusing on the lives of ordinary people and addressing social issues, these films contributed to a broader cultural shift towards greater representation and diversity in cinema.
Refer to the Listed Films for the recommended works associated with the movement. Also, check out the rest of the Film Movements on our website.