
This drama documentary for cinema explores the pacifism that was such a powerful influence on composer Benjamin Britten's life and work. The story begins in 1929 at Gresham's School in Norfolk, England. Our young actors take us into a world where social and political issues are actively addressed and young Ben Britten's hatred of all things militaristic is formed. As we explore the music that illustrated that hatred throughout his life, illustrated by new performances and uni... (Full plot summary below)
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This drama documentary for cinema explores the pacifism that was such a powerful influence on composer Benjamin Britten's life and work. The story begins in 1929 at Gresham's School in Norfolk, England. Our young actors take us into a world where social and political issues are actively addressed and young Ben Britten's hatred of all things militaristic is formed. As we explore the music that illustrated that hatred throughout his life, illustrated by new performances and unique observations from experts and friends, we frequently return to dramatic interludes at Gresham's, which cement the narrative - spoken by legendary actor John Hurt. The transcendent music of the War Requiem accompanies the climax of the film, before we return to Gresham's School 2012.
Leave your thoughts about Benjamin Britten: Peace and Conflict.
| Total FilmSteve O'BrienDirector Tony Britten (no relation) paints a compelling picture of the left-wing revolution which seduced an entire generation of young aesthetes. |
| GuardianSteve RoseUnlikely to bring the composer to new audiences, but music lovers will find it illuminating and evocative ... |
| Metro (UK)Larushka Ivan-ZadehIt's compiled with obvious affection and director Tony Britten (no relation) scores coups whenever he sets his camera in front of a choir, soloist or string quartet and lets the music sing and soar for itself. |
| London Evening StandardCharlotte O'SullivanThe material covered in this homage is fascinating but the end product could, unless you're already a huge fan, put you off Britten for life. |
| Financial TimesAntonia QuirkeThe purest, most sincere fan letter ever written. |
| ViewLondonJennifer TateSuccessful in its elucidation of the composer's music style and personal politics, but the tone fluctuates far too often and some of the actors aren't quite up to scratch. |
| Time OutTrevor JohnstonPromising in theory, but clunky writing and direction in the boyhood flashbacks combines with seemingly arbitrary time-shifts to make this a turgid viewing experience. |