Trainspotting Close-Up (“London Montage” Sequence)

Overview

The ‘London Montage’ sequence in Trainspotting (Danny Boyle, 1996) comes at a pivotal moment in the story. The montage is a rapid-cutting sequence that signals a change in time and location, signalling Renton’s move from his hometown of Edinburgh to London. This sequence serves as a visual embodiment of the film’s central themes, particularly its criticism of capitalist society. It also marks a significant turning point in the narrative, as Renton has left his old lifestyle behind and is forced to confront the realities of a new world.

Ideological Analysis: Anti-Capitalist

The ‘London Montage’ sequence is rife with examples of an anti-capitalist ideology. The use of handheld consumer-grade footage and home video footage of tourism highlights the shift from a cinematic to a more personal and everyday perspective, symbolising a break from the mainstream. This change in film stock also adds a rawness to the sequence that adds to its authenticity.

The sequence’s cliched sights of London, including Tower Bridge, ice cream, pigeons, and Piccadilly Circus, all represent the superficiality of the city’s supposed capitalist agenda. The montage serves as a visual embodiment of the “choose life” monologue, demonstrating the emptiness of consumerism and conformity. We can infer that Boyle’s intentions were to criticise capitalist society by showcasing its inherent superficiality and emptiness. The effect on the audience is profound, as it highlights the dangers of blindly following a capitalist agenda.

The sequence’s most interesting and insightful example is that it demonstrates that despite the fact that Renton has left his old lifestyle behind, he is still trapped in a similar vicious circle. Irony is created from the fact that that while Renton has escaped from the drug den, he has entered into a new realm of capitalism and consumerism by becoming an estate agent, that is just as dangerous in his eyes. This highlights the film’s themes, demonstrating that societal problems are not isolated issues but are instead interconnected. Boyle intended to illustrate that these problems are systemic and cannot be solved by a simple change of scenery. In effect, this reinforces the film’s central message of anti-capitalism, challenging them to question their values and their place in society.

Narrative Analysis

The ‘London Montage’ sequence also exemplifies the film’s narrative structure. The use of the non-diegetic compiled score, electronic dance music exemplary the 1990s, is a prime example. This score starkly juxtaposes the retro ‘70s soundtrack of the first half of the film, signalling a change in location and society.

The sequence provides a notable turning point in the film, marking the second act’s beginning. The modern metropolis of London contrasts sharply with the Scottish landscapes seen earlier in the film, representing Renton’s new life and the challenges that come with it. The use of the montage technique conveys a sense of time compression, emphasising the overwhelming speed of change in Renton’s life.