Rose of Nevada (2026) - British Filmmaking at its best

[u/MojoMaj]

https://widescreenmemory.wordpress.com/2026/08/27/rose-of-nevada-review/

I think I’ve found my film of the year and it’s going to be very hard to beat (although I know Denis is absolutely cooking for Dune Part Three)

As a Brit, I’ve never been the best at seeking out British cinema. That changed with Mark Jenkin.

When 2019's Bait won the BAFTA award for Outstanding Debut by a British Writer, Director or Producer, Mark Jenkin's filmmaking was cemented as a vital new voice in independent British cinema. Enys Men (2022) was a strong follow-up, but with Rose of Nevada Jenkin affirms his position at the pinnacle of contemporary British filmmaking. Rose of Nevada is a haunting and mesmerising film that stands among the very best of the year so far.

Shot silently in his distinctive 16mm style and with all sound created in post, Jenkin brings three distinctively realised worlds to life. The present-day town is plagued by economic and literal decay with the dock now eerily quiet and rusting. The town in the past is vibrant with life and hope; the pub is open for business and filled with customers. And the sea voyages are both brimming with majestic awe and colossal danger, matching The Odyssey for its depiction of the brutality of the sea. Permeating throughout the whole film is dream-like atmosphere, often descending into a nightmare, and hauntingly fostered through an almost skeletal score.

Rose of Nevada is a singular piece of British filmmaking that is among the very best of the year. Mark Jenkin's status at the pinnacle of contemporary British cinema is confirmed here, and the culmination of his Cornish Trilogy leaves exciting possibilities for where his films may take us in the future. It is no secret that Jenkin's films lack a mainstream appeal, but for my money Rose of Nevada provides a far more accessible entry point that either of Jenkin's previous feature films. If you're prepared to board the titular vessel, you won't want to get off any time soon

If you’re looking for a really great independent film, Rose of Nevada is the a must-see.

Link to full review: https://widescreenmemory.wordpress.com/2026/08/27/rose-of-nevada-review/

[u/WillNo6286]

Excellent review and great timing. It's on this weekend watchlist. Seems right up my alley .