Bill Douglas: A Film Artist

This book explores the life and career of Bill Douglas, a British filmmaker who is recognized as one of the greatest of his time. It examines his work through archive material and raises questions about his status as an artist and his struggles within the film industry. It also explores the wider legacy of his work through the collection of moving image history he assembled with Peter Jewell, which became the foundation of the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum.

Format: Hardback
Length: 250 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2022
Publisher: University of Exeter Press

This comprehensive and insightful book delves into the remarkable life and artistic journey of Bill Douglas, exploring his work and legacy thirty years after his passing. Despite creating a modest body of work during his lifetime, Douglas is widely recognized as one of the greatest filmmakers in British history. His films, such as the Bill Douglas Trilogy, which drew inspiration from his impoverished childhood in Scotland, and Comrades, his epic tribute to the Tolpuddle Martyrs, have left an indelible mark on those who have witnessed them. The interest in Douglas's work has grown steadily over the years, both within the UK and internationally.

The purpose of this groundbreaking work is to provide a comprehensive examination of Douglas's life and career through the use of recently accessible archive material. Editors Amelia Watts and Phil Wickham have assembled a diverse group of scholars and practitioners to reevaluate Douglas's career from various perspectives. The book raises thought-provoking questions about his status as an artist and delves into his challenges within the film industry during the 1970s and 1980s. It also explores the broader impact of Douglas's work through the collection of moving image history he assembled with Peter Jewell, which formed the foundation of the Bill Douglas Cinema Museum.

This book will appeal to a wide range of readers, including film students and scholars, as well as the dedicated group of general readers who are passionate about Douglas's work. The foreword by renowned filmmaker Mark Cousins further highlights the significance of Douglas's contributions to the art of cinema.

In conclusion, this book is a vital contribution to the study of Bill Douglas and his enduring legacy in the world of film. It offers a deep and multifaceted exploration of his life, work, and impact, providing a valuable resource for scholars, students, and enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 560g
Dimension: 164 x 241 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804130247