10 Rillington Place (1971)- What makes it British?

There is no doubt that 1971 horror hit 10 Rillington Place is British. Although the director Richard Fleischer and one of the producers, Martin Ransohoff, were both American, the whole cast and other crew members were British. As the film is based on a true story which took place in Britian, they ensured that they cast British people so that the film kept its authenticity. The lead actor, Richard Attenborough who played John Christie, was born in Cambridge and went on to win four BAFTAs and Golden Globes throughout his career- one of Britian's most acclaimed actors. He is supported in 10 Rillington Place by Judy Geeson as Beryl Evans and John Hurt as Tim Evans. Both Judy and John are also British, with the latter going on to win a BAFTA for his supporting role in the film.

The main reason, however, as to why 10 Rillington Place is unquestionably British is the fact that it is based on a true story which took place in Britain. The film also makes constant references to events that took place during World War 2, which had a huge affect on Britian culturally. The film takes place in London where Notting Hill now exists, which is now a hugely popular area. This is important because the film-makers use it to inform the audience what the area looked like in the past. The film was also filmed in exactly the same place as it was set. Although the three families refused to move out of the exact house for filming, they used an empty house just three doors down. Classic themes of what it was like to be British at the time flow throughout the whole film and that's what makes it truly British.