It’s been just over a year since the BBC closed down its long-running Film… talkshow that began way back in the ‘70s with Barry Norman – but now the Beeb is presenting an all-new film-based series. The show, called Life Cinematic, is an hour-long programme featuring interviews with acclaimed filmmakers talking about their careers, the movies that inspired them, and breaking down the art of movie-making in their favourite scenes.
Among the directors due to be featured in the initial run are Sam Mendes, Edgar Wright and Sam Taylor-Johnson – with the 1917 director first up in an episode due to air on 30 January. As well as sharing insights into the making of his epic World War I movie, presented as a single unbroken take, he talks his love of movies ranging from The Godfather Part II and Blue Velvet, to Lost In Translation. “It was an absolutely joy to spend time with Edith Bowman discussing some of the films and directors who have influenced me throughout my career,” Mendes said. “I hope this show inspires other young filmmakers to discover these movies for the first time, and fall in love with them too.”
The second episode, airing on 6 February, will revolve around Edgar Wright – talking the Cornetto Trilogy, his upcoming Last Night In Soho, and the myriad movies that have influenced him along the way. Fingers crossed for an passionate breakdown of the merits of Point Break and Bad Boys II. Edgar's instalment will be followed by an episode on Sam Taylor-Johnson – the director behind Nowhere Boy, Fifty Shades Of Grey, and most recently A Million Little Pieces. Catch Life Cinematic on BBC Four at 9pm on Thursdays.