In an era of PR and spin, Dennis Skinner is a thrillingly authentic political figure: fearsome, principled, and uncompromising, he has been sticking up for the interests of the people of his constituency in Bolsover since 1970. An ex-miner, he was represented his community through the industrial action of the 1970s, the closure of the mines, and the slow drift to the ‘centre-ground’ within Labour politics. Famous for his sharp wit and unyielding style, Skinner has remained true to his roots, fighting for the disadvantaged and often getting himself into trouble in Parliament. The story of both a towering figure, and the fortunes of progressive politics in Britain over the last half-century.
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As said in my review for Tomas Leach's 'The Lure', another documentary that came out at the same time as this just over a month ago, saw this as someone who likes documentaries a lot, whether on film or on television (can't get enough of the nature/wildlife documentaries from David Attenborough in particular).Dennis Skinner is a controversial figure but also an interesting one. He was bound to get a documentary of his own one day and has interesting enough of a life to warrant one. 'Nature of the Beast' (referencing Skinner's nickname "The Beast of Bolshover") does the man justice and works very well as a documentary on its own, between this and 'The Lure' (two of three, the other being the brilliant 'The Farthest', documentary films seen over a month ago at the cinema) this is the better documentary film. It's not perfect but has a lot going for it.Maybe 'Nature of the Beast' goes on for a little too long and occasionally lacks urgency, 15-20 minutes could have been cut with less of the lengthy monologues (most very entertaining and illuminating, but others just ramble and don't fit as much) for example. It is slightly one-sided at times as well, as wonderful it was to see this side to Skinner he was a complex and controversial man, and while one can see touches of this through some damning quips directed towards the Queen herself and his denouncement of political patronage and the government for examples this side could have been expanded upon more.'Nature of the Beast' is well shot on the other hand and the scenery is lovely too. Loved the very varied soundtrack and for a first feature Daniel Draper's passion for the subject and enthusiasm really shines through, one can tell he really wanted to make this and enjoyed it.Skinner himself plays a huge part as to why 'Nature of the Beast' works as well as it does. Really liked how charming, personal and approachable he came over as (like in his attitude to nature, talking about Woody Allen films and singing "Getting to Know You") and what one finds out about him is really fascinating. Other than his principles and how passionate he was for example some of the revelations about his personal life were new to me and for a documentary to me it's a good thing to have a mix of old and new knowledge. The montage shows off his surprising wit as well and a great job is done showing what lay behind his passion and determination.On a documentary level 'Nature of the Beast' is gentle and affectionate, with a touch of controlled wit, treating the man and the audience with respect.In conclusion, fascinating and charming. 8/10 Bethany Cox
