Trainspotting chronicles the adventures of Mark Renton, a heroin addict in Edinburgh, and his fellow motley crew of addicts and the misfortunes they encounter. Over the course of the movie, Renton attempts to get sober several times, although it doesn't go that well; he almost dies from an inadvertent heroin overdose and has a fling with a schoolgirl. Deciding to get the heck out of dodge, Renton starts a new sober life in London. Unfortunately his Edinburgh pals are determined that Renton will not forget them... Adored by critics and fans alike, the stature of Trainspotting continues to grow. The film has been named Best Scottish Film in 2004 by the general public and is in the BFI's Top 100 British Films of all time. Much kudos must go to both director Danny Boyle and Ewan McGregor in the role of Renton. Boyle's direction is edgy and exciting and McGregor radiates magnetism, even though he is a low life smack addict for much of the film. The movie deals with disgusting and harrowing material but never descends to the gutter - even when Renton falls into a poop filled toilet bowl. Stylish and quirky, Trainspotting remains vital and fresh even after repeated viewings. What British cult films were left off this list? Share you picks down in the comments.
My first film watched was Carrie aged 2 on my dad's knee. Educated at The University of St Andrews and Trinity College Dublin. Fan of Arthouse, Exploitation, Horror, Euro Trash, Giallo, New French Extremism. Weaned at the bosom of a Russ Meyer starlet. The bleaker, artier or sleazier the better!
