Benjamin Britten: Peace and Conflict

Feb 1 2013 N/A 1h 45m
Biography, Drama, Music

A feature film about Benjamin Britten, released as part of the 100 year celebrations of his birth. Britten is the most performed British composer worldwide. This film premiered at Gresham's School, which he attended, and focuses on how his life-long pacifism influenced his life and music. Written and directed by Tony Britten (In Love With Alama Cogan), narrated by John Hurt and with a superb cast of young people, including many supporting roles taken by students of Gresham's School, the film weaves dramatisation with a documentary narrative.

Plot

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.

Written by

Tony Britten

Directed by

Tony Britten

Cast

John Hurt, Joseph Horovitz, Simon Kinder

Crew

View crew

Production Countries

United Kingdom

Production Companies

Capriol Films

Languages

English

Awards

N/A

Teasers
Benjamin Britten - Peace and Conflict Teaser
Scores
# of Votes
46
Average Rating
6.4 out of 10
Metascore
NA
Popularity
NA