Trainspotting Close-Up (“London Montage” Sequence)

Narrative:

The montage begins with sudden, jarring stock footage of thongs that are distinctively from London. Rapidly edited shots of pigeons, ice cream, tourists, double decked buses and famous street sign convey the new location to us, alongside the use of current dance chart music from the time, a switch from the cool retro compiled music used before. This use of shallow chart music that would have been popular at the time signals a change to a new place. Even the camerawork loses its signature playful flourishes, reverting to a more conventional style of cinematography, signifying Renton’s turn to consumerism and some level of ‘normality’ in modern life, and a turning point in the film.

Ideology:

The use of new chart music and the distinctively London things serve as the embodiment of all the things that Renton rejects in his initial ‘choose life’ monologue. The typical working-class values are embodied here in the montage of a modern, bright metropolis. It also signifies Renton starting a new chapter in his life, accepting capitalism, work as an estate agent, and a rejection of heroin, hedonism, etc.