Tuesday, January 29, 2008

BFI: The Free Cinema Movement



Just came across this terrific interactive "education" on Britain's "Free Cinema" film movement of the mid-1950s thru early 60's. Yes, it's informative. But, the best part is that it's hosted by the great Malcolm McDowell. McDowell is the perfect host for this tour, being that he is a protege of legendary filmmaker Lindsay Anderson, one of the innovators of the movement.

On the first go through, I was able to answer most of the questions correctly, but then, I found much more amusement in deliberately answering them wrong or taking way too long to make a move, because the ritualistic reward of being berated by McDowell is priceless.


Then, do yourself a favor and check out the complete collection of films on DVD:


UPDATE
I've since had the opportunity to meet Mr. McDowell at this year's Texas Frightmare Weekend in Grapevine. Needless to say, he was extremely cool. I mentioned how much I enjoyed the BFI Free Cinema thing, to which he replied, "You saw that?!"

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