Penda's Fen

jrhovind described it as "THE PILGRIM'S PROGRESS reimagined as queer pastoral" on lboxd, which is true but doesn't quite capture its intimidating scope and density, connecting the dots between the metaphysical, political, cultural and personal until a breathtakingly comprehensive vision of this beautiful awful god-forsaken country emerges. it would sit well next to the work of my favourite musician richard dawson, which is high praise indeed (i invite you all to listen to PEASANT).

Occasioanlly surrealist existential anxiety about one's personal and identity connnection to one's land and country, and loneliness, conformity, isolation, tradition. Basically great. My 1000th review.

An odd, nicely-written and capably-made curiosity, tapping into a number of themes in a surreal manner that Clarke would explore in a more straightforward way in his later work. It has a flavour of folk-horror about it, driven by the abundant mysticism, and its use of landscape and music. Its full of complexity as the young protagonist explores his beliefs and place in the world. While it doesn't feel immediately accessible, there is plenty to enjoy here and reward attention. Worth checking out.

"He has these faults or eccentricities but he's not doing anything of harm except seeking out an audience." http://illusionpodcast.blogspot.com/2014/12/episode-40-bbc-films-of-alan-clarke.html

brrrrrr