DVD Review - Tony Benn: Will and Testament
Posted on: 2015-01-27
Our rating:
A compelling portrait tracing Benn's private and public stories that is riveting, inspiring and profoundly moving.
Revered and reviled in equal measure, campaigner, humanitarian and perpetual pipe-smoking legend Tony Benn could certainly ruffle feathers. But regardless of whether you loved him or loathed him, there's no denying his outspoken, passionate views left an unmatched political legacy.
Skip Kite's documentary is a fascinating, immersive study of the man, both political and personal, and his lifelong dedication to the question of right and wrong.
Benn renounced his peerage in order to remain an MP and represented the former constituency of Bristol South East for a total of 30 years, and famously said he gave up being an MP to devote more time to politics.
Even when he was well into his 80s he still revelled in fanning the political flames and inciting a reaction. "I got a death threat the other day - I was so chuffed," he jokes.. At one point in his career he was branded by The Sun as 'The most dangerous man in Britain."
He served as a fighter pilot in the RAF, where he said he got his real education meeting normal, working class people. He oversaw the opening of Post Office Tower in 1965 during his tenure as postmaster general and campaigned against nuclear weapons. He even gave as good as he got in an interview with Ali G.
By turns riveting, inspiring and profoundly moving, Will and Testament is a beautifully made documentary and a fitting memoir.
It''s never fawning or excessively hagiographical, just a compelling portrait tracing Benn's private and public stories from nascent political interests to fiery veteran campaigner. You might not agree with his politics, but it's impossible not to admire Benn the man, his warmth, his genuine heart and soul, and his relentless advocacy to do what's good and right. Today's politicians could learn a thing or two.
5/5
Reviewed by Jamie Caddick for 365Bristol - the leading events and entertainment website for Bristol
Article by:
Born and raised in the suburbs of Swansea, Jimmy moved to Bristol back in 2004 to attend university. Passionate about live music, sport, science and nature, he can usually be found walking his cocker spaniel Baxter at any number of green spots around the city. Call James on 078 9999 3534 or email Editor@365Bristol.com.
