This film is part of Free
Benjamin Britten - Personal Film 1939-1978
Charming scenes of the composer at home in Suffolk with his partner Peter Pears, and on trips with friends including Rostropovich.
Overview
Benjamin Britten relaxes with friends and his partner and muse Peter Pears in this collection of home movies, which gives a lovely insight into the composer's home life in Suffolk. Among the snapshots of holidays and other occasions are Britten and Pears attending the Aldeburgh Festival over the years, glimpses of homes including Crag Cottage and the Red House, and an ailing but cheerful Britten on a trip to Venice. Russian cellist Mstislav Rostropovich, a close friend of Britten's, also makes an appearance, playfully messing about for the camera with Britten on a trip to Durham in 1964.
Spanning a period of almost 40 years, the films alternate between colour and black and white, and end rather sadly in 1978 with the unveiling of a plaque commemorating Britten, who had died two years earlier. This film was donated to the BFI National Archive by the Britten-Pears Library.
Related
Afrika Bambaataa on Afrofuturism (Q&A) Afrika Bambaataa on Afrofuturism (Q&A)
Inside Film 2014 45 mins
Afrika Bambaataa and DJ, musician and filmmaker Don Letts discuss the development of Afrofuturism and its key artists.
Alexandre Desplat (Masterclass) Alexandre Desplat (Masterclass)
Inside Film 2011 33 mins
Over 30 years and 150 projects, the composer shares, with humour and passion, the intricacies of making film music.
Ian Neil (Masterclass) Ian Neil (Masterclass)
Inside Film 2012 74 mins
Neil selected soundtracks for 127 Hours, Shame, Kick Ass, Control and many more. He discusses the job and its complexities, referencing his own work.
Screenwriters' Lecture: Peter Straughan Screenwriters' Lecture: Peter Straughan
Inside Film 2012 mins
Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy's adapter reveals his quest for "the poem of the book" and the importance of simplicity: 'Drain the pond to find the fish'.
Gabriel Yared on composing for film Gabriel Yared on composing for film
Inside Film 2013 11 mins
Composer of The Lives of Others, The English Patient and Betty Blue on intimacy and experimentation.
Lois Burwell on movie makeup Lois Burwell on movie makeup
Inside Film 2013 17 mins
Lincoln, Braveheart and Magnolia make-up artist Lois Burwell explains how she created some of her most iconic looks, as part of a BAFTA Masterclass.