The usual political line is that “we don’t negotiate with terrorists.” What happens, then, when the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom is required to fuck a pig on live TV to save the princess’ life?
That’s what The National Anthem explores. It’s an exercise in tension, unease, and horror. It’s a compelling watch, not least because it’s so realistic and believable. The UK’s leaders utilise all the resources in their power to resolve the situation before the 4pm deadline, whilst the threat of the act looms closer as the hours pass.
It’s a smartly made piece of TV, comprised of various contemporary subthemes such as the power of the Internet and social media as they co-depend with traditional news outlets, and approval ratings of the PM as the public voices its opinion on the situation (as to whether the act should be carried out or not).
Above all, The National Anthem‘s greatest strength lies in its “what if?” realism. It barely requires any suspension of disbelief from the viewer, and the drama that fact creates is the most disquieting thing of all.
2011, Otto Bathurst
7.0
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