Submarine (2010) — The Underrated British Masterpiece That Redefines Coming-of-Age Cinema

Absolutely blown away—I only said this was good the first time I watched it, but I was definitely wrong. After a second viewing, I realized this is nothing short of a cinematic masterpiece, and I can’t believe I didn’t appreciate it sooner.

Submarine is a fantastic coming-of-age story that captures the awkwardness, confusion, and intensity of adolescence with remarkable authenticity. The characters are wonderfully crafted, full of realistic flaws, complicated dynamics, and genuine emotions. Oliver, in particular, felt like a mirror of my own younger self back in secondary school—socially awkward, introspective, and trying desperately to understand his place in the world. The relationship between Oliver and Jordana is portrayed with a rare sensitivity—sweet, fragile, and heartbreaking all at once. It’s definitely up there with some of the best cinematic couples I’ve ever seen, the kind of connection that feels honest rather than idealized.

From a filmmaking perspective, Submarine stands out as one of the best films I’ve encountered. It easily outshines many recent releases, and I think a big part of that comes down to its editing. Richard Ayoade’s editing style reminds me of Edgar Wright’s—with that fast-paced rhythm and constant cuts—but where Wright uses it mainly to set up future jokes and punchlines, Ayoade uses it in a far more stylistic way that adds depth and character to the film. As an aspiring editor myself, I really appreciate when editing isn’t just functional but meaningful, when it helps tell the story and reflects the mood or personality of the characters. Ayoade’s editing feels intentional and expressive, almost like a visual extension of Oliver’s chaotic teenage mind.

And it’s not just the editing that impresses; the cinematography is equally remarkable. Some shots in this film are absolutely breathtaking. The scenes set on the beach stand out as the most visually stunning, capturing a kind of melancholic beauty that perfectly fits the tone of the film. The use of lighting, color, and framing all work together to create a distinct atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll.

What’s particularly surprising—and makes this film even more impressive—is that it was directed by Richard Ayoade, who many might only know as one of the leads in The IT Crowd. This film reveals a completely different side of his talent, showcasing his skills as a filmmaker who can craft a deeply emotional, visually striking, and intelligent story.

All in all, Submarine is perhaps one of the best British films ever made. It’s earned a permanent place on my list of favorite movies of all time, and I can’t recommend it enough to anyone who appreciates thoughtful storytelling and innovative filmmaking. This film has truly left a lasting impression on me.