The Damned United (2009) | How Woke Is It?

Our VerdictNot Woke

The Damned United2009

In a free society the right to critique art is essential and protected speech. These reviews reflect personal opinions and not statements of fact.

What We Think

‘The Damned United’ is refreshingly non-woke by today’s standards. It sticks to authentic, character-driven storytelling and respects the culture and era it portrays. A rare example where the film feels completely uninterested in modern ideological trends.

Score Breakdown

Compromised:Narrative Integrity

Not Woke

What is this?

This film is very much rooted in traditional storytelling, focusing on Brian Clough’s tenure at Leeds United. Characterization is based on historical figures and their personalities, not modern identity politics. No shoehorned ‘diverse’ casting or ideological soapboxing here, just messy, complex humans making mistakes in football and life.

Compromised:Cultural Foundations

Not Woke

What is this?

‘The Damned United’ is steeped in working-class British culture and classic masculine rivalries, highlighting both the flaws and strengths in its real-life subjects. Religion, family, and masculinity are depicted authentically, not ridiculed or watered down. This kind of historical realism is almost quaint nowadays.

Compromised:Ideological Monoculture

Not Woke

What is this?

There’s no overt ideological messaging, and certainly no villainization of dissenting views or traditional values. The film’s time period is respected, with no attempts to drag in present-day political battles or moral grandstanding. It’s a welcome escape from today’s uniform narratives.

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Disclaimer: In a free society the right to critique art is essential and protected as a form of free speech and freedom of expression. The reviews and commentary on this site represent personal opinions and interpretations. They are not statements of fact and should not be taken as factual claims about any individual, company, or creative work.