Film Review: “Blue Jean” Offers a Nuanced Perspective on Lesbian Life in Thatcher’s Britain

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In the movie “Blue Jean,” set in 1988 England, we delve into the complex journey of a high school gym teacher as she grapples with her sexual identity. This quietly powerful film by Georgia Oakley paints a multifaceted portrait of compartmentalization and self-discovery within the context of Margaret Thatcher’s Britain.

During this period, the British Prime Minister expressed her concerns about the state of education, criticizing the teaching of “traditional moral values” and the perception that being gay was an inherent right. These sentiments ultimately led to the enactment of Section 28 in May 1988, a law aimed at prohibiting the promotion of homosexuality, which remained in effect until 2003. Interestingly, both the director and lead actress of “Blue Jean” were unaware of this law, highlighting its obscure nature.

Rather than focusing on the activists who protested against Section 28, Oakley’s assured directorial debut concentrates on a character who is still navigating her own identity. Jean, portrayed by Rosy McEwen, is not particularly politically inclined and, like many teachers, keeps her personal life private. However, her career and passion for teaching are directly threatened by the newly passed law. Through the course of the film, Jean’s journey is deeply human, filled with mistakes, regrets, and sacrifices, making her a relatable character with flaws rather than an idealized hero.

At the outset, Jean leads a quiet existence—living alone in an apartment, teaching gym and coaching the girls’ netball team at a high school. While she takes her work seriously, she maintains a distance from both her students and colleagues, often eating lunch alone and declining social invitations. Occasionally, she meets her girlfriend Viv (Kerrie Hayes) and a group of other lesbians at an underground bar, where Jean appears hesitant and unsure, contrasting with the openly proud women around her. Against this backdrop, radio news broadcasts constantly mention the looming Section 28.

These circumstances lead Jean to believe that hiding is the most prudent course of action. She convinces herself that maintaining boundaries with her students and colleagues necessitates concealing her true self. However, when a new student named Lois (Lucy Halliday) arrives at the school and reveals her own homosexuality, Jean’s carefully constructed world starts to crumble. The situation escalates when Lois witnesses Jean with Viv and their friends, causing Jean to retreat further into herself. Eventually, Jean faces a shocking decision that shapes the film’s climax.

Jean embodies the traits of an introvert influenced by her environment—she no longer speaks to her mother, and her attempts at support from her more conservative, heterosexual sister only exacerbate her feelings. Her sister scolds Jean for exposing her 5-year-old son to Viv, even though she often drops the child off at Jean’s apartment unannounced. Viv, too, admonishes Jean for referring to herself as “a friend” when talking to her nephew.

Oakley’s intention was to portray a protagonist without glamourization or misrepresentation, drawing inspiration from filmmakers like Kelly Reichardt and Chantal Akerman. “Blue Jean” serves as a fitting film to debut during Pride, reminding us of the not-so-distant past and the lasting impact of institutionalized homophobia.

“Blue Jean,” distributed by Magnolia Pictures, will be released in theaters on Friday. The film is not yet rated by the Motion Picture Association and has a runtime of 97 minutes. It garners three out of four stars.

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Follow Lindsey Bahr, AP Film Writer, on Twitter: www.twitter.com/ldbahr.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about lesbian life in Thatcher’s Britain

More about lesbian life in Thatcher’s Britain

• Margaret Thatcher and Section 28
• Understanding Section 28
• Georgia Oakley – IMDb
• More about “Blue Jean” – Magnolia Pictures
• LGBTQ+ Rights in Britain