documentary - 50 mins
For more than 50 years, the British cinemagoer was given a window on the world by the seven-minute newsreel. Centered on an interview with lead commentators Bob Danvers Walker and Leslie Mitchell, and with extensive use of clips, this documentary looks at the rise and fall of the newsreel and stresses their cultural importance.
The two men recall the friendly rivalry between the companies to get that all-important ‘scoop’, and give a fascinating personal account of historic, poignant, and humorous world events which were brought to the people in the one-and-nines - almost as they happened.
The interview was conducted by Su Ingle.
The programme was Leslie’s last appearance before his death in November 1985 and provides a fitting tribute to a man whose distinctive voice and imperturbable manner made him such a respected figure in broadcasting.
producer
ROBERT SIDAWAY
researcher
ASHLEY SIDAWAY
