Drinking for England (1998)

Imbibing booze is arguably the nation’s greatest and most persistent pastime. Thirstily pursued by every class and generation, it knows no social or economic bounds.

Where most documentaries on alcohol intake adopt a moralistic tone, Drinking for England sets out to explore the celebratory aspects of the nation’s number one drug in lyrical fashion. Characters tell or sing their stories in verse, their words composed by poet Simon Armitage, based on interviews with the film’s participants.

Denis, a retired professional gent in Norfolk has a civilised daily routine of gin and tonic, and cites “cheap wine” as the main cause of alcoholic problems. Drink-driving laws, Denis insists, should be relaxed for experienced drinkers such as himself.

We go out on the town with Ami and Kerry, two young women who don’t feel at home unless they’re sozzled. Jane, who’s madly in love with sherry, yearns to kick the habit so she can spend more time with her young son.