Watch A Royal Hangover

A Royal Hangover is a 2014 documentary film that sheds light on the influence of alcohol on British culture and how it has become deeply ingrained in the fabric of society. It is an introspective look at the drinking habits of the British people and the consequences that come with it. The film features interviews with several popular figures, including comedian Russell Brand, pop star Eliza Doolittle, and politician David Cameron. The interviews are mixed with footage of various drinking events such as stag parties, universities' drinking culture, and the annual Ascot Horse Race. The documentary attempts to address the question of why the British seem to have such a deep love for alcohol and the consequences that come with it.

The film begins by exploring the early history of drinking culture in Britain, which was often associated with violence and recklessness. The documentary highlights the relationship between the British monarchy and drinking, as King George III was famously known for his struggles with alcoholism. The filmmakers also argue that the drinking habits of the aristocracy have influenced the broader British population.

The focus of the film then moves to the present day, where drinking is all around, from workplaces and universities to sporting events and nightclubs. The filmmakers interview young people who engage in regular drinking binges and often find themselves in risky situations. The film's participants also discuss the notion of 'lad culture', a phenomenon that revolves around excessive alcohol consumption and bravado displayed in male-dominated spaces.

Throughout the documentary, the film's participants also discuss the more severe consequences of excessive drinking, such as addiction, liver disease, and social exclusion. The interview with Russell Brand, who is now sober, offers a critical insight into the impact of alcoholism on an individual's life and how drinking often masks underlying emotional and psychological pain.

The documentary also addresses the economic effects of Britain's drinking culture, with the National Health Service (NHS) having to bear the brunt of costs of alcohol-related diseases and accidents. The film's participants examine the role of multinational drinks companies, who have a vested interest in promoting drinking culture and supporting sporting and cultural events.

The film concludes by raising concerns about the normalization of excessive alcohol consumption by British society, especially the younger generations, and calls for action to address this phenomenon.

Overall, A Royal Hangover offers a sobering look at Britain's drinking culture through the lenses of several people and an array of events. The documentary provides a unique insight into the impact of alcohol on British society and highlights the need for urgent action to address this issue.

A Royal Hangover is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 21 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.8.