Restless Natives
| Company type | Film |
|---|---|
| Industry | Film industry |
| Founded | 1985 |
| Founder | Michael Hoffman (director) |
| Products | Adventure comedy film |
Restless Natives is a 1985 Scottish adventure comedy directed by Michael Hoffman.
Plot
The story centers on two young men from Edinburgh's Wester Hailes area, portrayed by Vincent Friell and Joe Mullaney, who reject their grim urban existence by adopting the role of contemporary highwaymen. Donning masks resembling a clown and a wolf-man, and riding a Suzuki GP 125 motorcycle, they rob tourist buses in the Highlands using a toy firearm, unintentionally becoming a local spectacle. They distribute the money they obtain to the impoverished in their city, emulating modern-day Rob Roy figures, which draws national media coverage and police attention.
After successfully avoiding arrest for some time, they attempt another bus robbery only to discover the driver (Ned Beatty) is actively pursuing them. The authorities detain them, but a representative from the Secretary of State for Scotland intervenes, releasing them due to their positive impact on Scottish tourism, which increased by 15%. To maintain their secrecy, a fabricated accident is orchestrated to explain their disappearance.
Themes
More than just a lighthearted social comedy, Restless Natives addresses the economic struggles faced by Scotland during the 1980s, highlighting issues such as high unemployment and political friction under a Conservative UK government that Scottish voters opposed in the 1983 general election. The film portrays the discontent of working-class Scottish youth and uses the motif of motorcycle-driven escapism through the Highlands. It belongs to a group of modestly budgeted films like Gregory's Girl and Local Hero that introduced contemporary Scottish culture to international viewers. Gaining cult status, it became emblematic of Scottish cultural identity and pride, subtly contrasting with Britishness and resonating with rising Scottish nationalist ideas. This thematic connection is underscored by a soundtrack from Big Country, whose music reflects similar motifs.
Music score
The film’s soundtrack includes compositions by Big Country, originally released solely as limited edition 12" singles blending songs with audio excerpts from the movie. It was eventually issued on CD in 1998 as a continuous 35-minute track within Big Country’s compilation Restless Natives & Rarities.
Production
The script was awarded first place in a Lloyds Bank screenplay competition before being acquired for filming.
Reception
While it achieved strong box office results in Scotland, the film did not replicate this success in other regions.