Films Documentary Films What Was Made 1960 to 1969
During the 1960s through 1970s and into the mid 1980s the documentary production team released between 12-30 films a year. The amount of work varied from year to year depending on the requirements of departments and the progress of individual films. This was a reasonably stable period by contrast with the somewhat erratic levels of production during the late 1940s and through the 1950s. This period of stability was to gradually diminish as the introduction of low cost video production in the 1980s arrived and started to grow.
This indicative set of figures, are taken from spread sheets compiled from identified films held in the National Film Archive together with information in the files of the National Archives The figures reflect a substantial number of the films made, but they are by no means all the films that were produced.
The following notes are about those films known to have produced during these years. It is very possible, even very likely that it is not a complete list of those documentary films that were made. If any viewers of this account have knowledge of films missing from this list please send any information by email using the contact address.
Films that can viewed on line are highlighted in red
1960
The new decade saw the release of 19 documentary films. This healthy level of production marked a return from the 1950s famine years of low levels of production.
However of these 19 films nine were produced for the Overseas Information Services (OIS) rather than for use in the UK. The levels of production for the OIS in the 1950s had done much to sustain Film Division.
"I am a Mobile Librarian" (click here to view from BFI) Little Hormead, Buntingford, Furneaux Pelham - just three of the villages visited by the mobile library on its fortnightly tour of East Hertfordshire. The film was commissioned by the Foreign Office, presumably, to present British society as efficient, educated and caring to audiences overseas. Librarian Sally Jenkins clearly derives much pleasure from her work, which she also regards as a hobby. Made by Basic Films and directed by Fred Moore. NFA ID 12447 NA INF6/1055
"I am a Youth Employment Officer" was about the work of a Youth Employment Officer in providing advice to school leavers and helping them to find jobs. Made by Basic Films and directed by John Fletcher NFA ID 12427
were part of a group of films produced for the Foreign Office illustrating life in the UK.
"Nigeria New Nation" celebrated the coming of Independence. It was the first of a number of films in later years marking the arrival of independence by former colonies. Their purpose was not only to mark the event but also to provide material for the OIS to counter the ever present critics of the British Empire.The film was directed by Arthur White, a staff member of Film Division, who went on in later years to become Divisional Director. NFA ID61414
"Life of a Queen" a biographical film of the Queen produced from newsreel sources. NFA ID 216870
"State Opening of Parliament" a record of this event in 1960
These two films were, in effect, films of record produced by the newsreel group Associated British Pathe. They would be staple elements in the film libraries of OIS Posts.
"Election In Britain" described the UK electoral system, the nature of the election campaigns, and the people who stood for Parliament. NFA ID 58812
"Kariba: Power for Central Africa" about the opening of the huge Kariba Dam by the Queen. A project that was to bring electricity to Central Africa. NFA ID 210252
"Child and School" was a portrait of the education system in the UK from nursery school to university. It was produced for the Overseas Information Services . Made by World Wide Pictures and directed by Henry Lewes NFA IDn4671
"Return to Life"(click here to view from the BFI) surveyed the UK role in helping refugees during past centuries and looked at current contributions through one family of refugees from Europe being resettled in the UK. Made by Basic Films Directed by John Krish who was the go to director for films that required a sensitive touch. NFA ID117087
The twelve films released for the Home Departments for use in the UK in 1960 began to reflect the pattern of production that was to emerge and continue for most of the next three decades. While they emerged in 1960, clearly some of the subjects, had been in the pipeline in the previous year.
Sponsorship was from a variety of departments ranging from the Board of Trade, the armed forces, Ministries of Agriculture, Labour and Health, the Metrication Board and the Department for Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR).
"Jungle Life Line" made for the RAF showed how the air force could deliver supplies to troops in the remote jungle. It served partly as a public relations film but also as a recruiting film. NFA ID 209324
"60 Years of Fashion" produced for the Board of Trade described the UK fashion industry. It was used overseas to promote exports. Made by Basic films directed by Sam Napier Bell. NFA ID 285141
"Modernising Farm Buildings" was produced for the Ministry of Agriculture to demonstrate the value of modern farm buildings. Made by Kinocrat films directed by Odran Walsh NFA ID11697
State Opening of Parliament included a brief historical opening followed by coverage of the event. Made by World Wide Pictures Produced by James Carr. NFA ID 292070
"Seaman and Technician" was a recruiting film for the Royal Navy showing the training of those wishing to be technicians or electricians Made by C A S Productions directed by Marc Broadway. NFA ID 279134 "On Its Way" was made for the Engineering Research Council
"The Branch Meeting" produced for the Ministry of Labour to encourage trade union members to attend and vote at branch meetings. An interesting film showing that there was a time when the government officially encouraged membership of trade unions. Produced by Leon Clore at Basic Films directed by Sam Napier-Bell NFA ID 60976
"Metric Production" and "Inspection" was one of three films for the Metrication Board to assist management teams in the planning of metrication programmes. 1960 saw the commencement of the changeover to metric measurements in the UK. This huge sea change from traditional measurements of inches, feet, yards was overseen by the Metrication Board. It mounted a huge campaign using all media and a considerable number of films.Made by New Decade Films directed by Stephen Cross. NFA ID 231462
"Hospital Teams in Action" a recruiting film for nurses describing the work of different members of a hospital team treating a very small boy with acute osteomyelitis. It demonstrated the variety of skilled jobs required to treat the boy. Produced for the Ministry of Health by Samaritan Films. NFA ID 21431
"Ways of Water" was a film about the work of the Hydraulics Research Station who dealt with the practical problems of handling water in many parts of the world. Made by Film Workshop directed by Dennis Shand NFA ID 8461
"Understanding Aggression" (click here to view from BFI) a drama documentary about handling patients with psychiatric issues. Directed by Margaret Thomson who had a track record of making films about social issues. Made for the Ministry of Health. NFA ID 13534
1961
saw the production of 15 documentary films of which 4 were produced for the Overseas Information Service. They were
" I am a Mayor" (click here to view from BFI) the Mayor of Maidenhead on life and local government in the Berkshire town. This film was part of a small series primarily aimed at overseas (especially Commonwealth) audiences, and secondly at UK classrooms.The picture they paint is of an untroubled postwar society comfortable with its history but just as much ease facing present and future.Leon Clore, producer of the I Am... series, and John Fletcher, director of I Am a Mayor, were both associated with the Free Cinema movement of the late 50s. But Free Cinema these films certainly weren't. Instead, their style serves their informative purpose (in this case explaining how town councils work) but also embodies the underlying theme of tradition and modernity comfortably infused. The look and sound are unobtrusive reboots of 1940s documentary: fluid mobile camerawork is mixed in with more traditional static shots, and the first-person voiceovers replace and humanise the classic 'Voice of God' narration. Made baby Basic Films and directed by John Fletcher NFA ID 8462
"I am a Reporter" about the work of a newspaper reporter in a local paper in the UK. Made by Basic Films directed by Fred Moore. NFA ID 14986
"Smithfield Market" about the work of the market.Made by ripple Productions directed by Vic Wark. NFA ID 20882
These two films were part of an on going series about aspects of life in the UK:
"Design In The Sky" was a film on the 1961 Farnborough Airshow as a portrayal of the modern British aircraft industry.
"Outpost of Freedom: Berlin. the meaning of Berlin Today" by contrast was a clearly political film about the situation of Berlinin 1961. Events leading up to the construction of the Berlin Wall and the plight of refugees were discussed and differences between East and West Berlin were illustrated. The film included clips of speeches from John F Kennedy and Winston Churchill together with an interview with Prime Minister Sir Alec Douglas-Hume. NFA ID 17777
These four films, taken together, neatly illustrate the range of subjects funded by the FCO for use overseas from quite “soft” information to a “hard” exposition of a political viewpoint.
Films for Home departments included
"Mr Marsh Comes To School" was about the work of a youth employment officer and aimed at secondary school children to help them decide about the choice of a career. Made by Basic Films and directed by John Krish NFA ID 9681
"The Take Over" was made for the Security Services as an anti-espionage training film. It was one of a group of about 4-5 films that looked at various aspects of ways in which people (mainly men) either in industry, science or the civil service might be led into giving away information including secret information to the agents of one or more communist countries. The films were used as part of training courses. The format was mainly of a dramatized account of the issues concerned. They were produced by a small group of production companies who had received security clearance. NFA ID N-38044
"Research For A Better Living" a film about ways in which agricultural research in Britain can assist living conditions in developing countries.Made by Realist Film Unit NFA ID 269835
Three films on safety on the farm were funded by the Ministry of Agriculture
"Farm Safety- Game of Chance" portraying risks on farms that can be avoided NFA ID 170997
"Farm Safety : why Tractors Overturn" demonstrating the many ways a tractor can easily be overturned.
"Farm Safety : Beware of the Bull" demonstrating ways in which poor management of bulls can lead to fatal encounters. NFA ID170998
"Ulster Heritage"(click here to view from BFI) The Northern Irish farming industry enjoys a day in the sun in this promotional showing the life and work of the Richmond family. It aims to highlight the strong agricultural roots of Ulster and also showcase new industries. Shot in Eastmancolor, Ulster Heritage gives a nostalgic look at a pre-Troubles province was a portrait of the province. Made by RHR Productions directed by Stanley Willis NFA ID 17281
"First Left Past Aden" about life on board a frigate HNS Loch Lomand showing a cross section of lower deck personnel. Intended as a recruiting film for showing to Secondary schools. Made by RHR Productions directed by R Compton Bannett. NFA ID 7480
"Mary Lewis: Student Nurse" was a recruiting film for nurses. It was the personal story of a young girl training to become a nurse. Made by Rayant Pictures directed by Sarah Erulkar. NFA ID 228228
Design In The Sky was about flying display at the 1961 Farnborough Air Show. Made by British Movieton directed by AS Brettell NFA ID 5849
1962
saw the production of 11 documentary films of which six were made for the Overseas Services.
The year was one that was very much in the period of the “cold war”. Three films reflected the political concerns of the time.
"The Hole in the Ground" was conceived as an introduction to the UK Warning and Monitoring Organisation that provided early warnings in the event of an atomic attack. It was produced by R.H.R Productions and directed by David Cobham. NFA ID 21378
"In The Shadow of the Wall" produced for the FCO about the Berlin Wall described the rights and duties of Western Governments in the City. The film featured the Prime Minister Douglas Hume. NFA ID 203300
"Persona Non Grata" again produced for the Security Services, described how a Russian diplomat seeks to suborn a British civil servant to commit an act of espionage.Made by World Wide Pictures directed by David Eady. NFA ID 715647
"Comprehensive School" (click here to view from BFI) this film presents a brave new world of British education to overseas viewers. What it neglects to mention is that the school it's filmed at wasn't just any old comprehensive school it was Holland Park School, in wealthy London W8. It was the flagship school for the new comprehensive sector, sometimes dubbed the 'socialist Eton' due to Labour politicians' tendency to send their children there. It was part of a series called Looking at Britain, produced from 1958 to 1961. Commissioned by the Colonial Office . It was intended mainly for distribution to African countries and was little-seen in the UK . The films were made on fairly modest budgets by 'economy' production companies. As a time capsule of the cutting edge of state education in the early 60s it can't be beat.Directed by Maxwell Munden NFA ID 13767 "A Sense of Belonging" described the work of Local Authority child care officers in a filmy RHR Productions directed by Margaret Thomson who had a notable track record of directing films on social subjects. NFA ID 61430 "Manchester Ship Canal" (click here to view from BFI) tugs and pilot draw a cargo-ship along the Manchester Ship Canal to the Port of Manchester, 36 miles inland.The film was funded by the Colonial Office though the motivation for making it is not clear. Part of Looking At Britain Series Directed by Maxwell Munden NFA ID2220
"Village Postmistress" a portrait of the village of Penn in Buckhampshire and the services provided by the village postmistress. Funded by the Commonwealth Relations Office.Made by Anvil Films NFA ID 315776
"Co-operative Store" a film about the co-operative movement in the UK again funded by the Commonwealth Relations Office.Made by Anvil Films NFA ID 9683
"Tanganyika – New Nation" recorded the Independence Celebrations of this new nation attended by Prince Philip NFA ID 2136
"The Colombo Plan" marked the 10th Anniversary of the Plan. It was an animation film about the aid work and technical assistance provided by the Colombo Plan in South East Asia. (note: Huw Wheldon was involved as narrator) Made by Halas and Batchelor NFA ID 53996
British Sporting Personalities: Peter May (click here to view from BFI). a portrait of Surrey and England cricketer Peter May - insurance broker in the city, celebrated sportsman and family man. This profile sees May batting at the Oval in 1953, on the tour with the MCC in 1954/55 and facing the touring Australian team in 1956. This is one of a series of ten films about contemporary sporting personalities sponsored by the Colonial Office, Commonwealth Relations Office and Foreign Office. Made by Associated British Pathe. NFA ID 133577
Ready to Wear (click here to view from BFI) made in a period when many African countries were proclaiming their independence from Britain, this episode of a Commonwealth /Colonial Office sponsored series, Looking at Britain, speaks to a colonial mentality that local movements were challenging. Evidence of the filmmakers' oblivious attitude is clear in the frankly bizarre choice to focus on Samuel Sherman's 'Sambo' fashion line. Also note the tendency to portray women working in fashion as machinists and men as craftsman.Made by Kinocrat Films and directed by Jennifer Thwaites NFA ID 15033
Youth Hostel Holiday (click here to view from BFI) it’s fun on a shoe string with the Youth Hostel Association. Daily chores and lights-out at 10 may not be to modern tastes but a budget-priced break in a lovely location has timeless appeal, as this issue of Looking At Britain from 1962 proves. It was made on behalf of the Colonial Office as part of the series intended for screening overseas. Made by Maxwell Munden Productions and directed by Jennifer Thwaites NFA ID 15042
These last six films were funded by the Overseas Information Services illustrating the continuing number of films made for use overseas.
"Answer to Emergency" described the National Hospital Service Reserve who were individuals trained to take part in hospital work in times of emergency.Made by Basic Films directed by Fred Moore NFA ID 117315
Enrolled Nurse a young girl and an older woman describe the stages of their 2 year training course to qualify as enrolled nurses. Made by Basic Films NFA ID 166 280
1963
saw the production of 17 films of which seven were made for the Overseas Information Services as follows:
"Ernest Bevin" was a biographical film about the Foreign Secretary Ernest Bevin reviewing his career from a farm labourer to become Minister of Labour during WW 2 and to Foreign Secretary in post war Britain. Made by Associated British Pathe NFA ID 8460
"Home and Away" was about football in the United Kingdom.Made by Associated British Pathe and directed by Sean Graham NFA ID21327
"The Helpers" was about the role of volunteers and voluntary work in Britain.Made by Hartley-Ward Films directed by Henry Lewes NFA ID 63445
"Women’s Institute" was also concerned with voluntary work though it considered the subject in the context of WI role in British life. Made by Anvil Films directed by Sydney Sharple NFA ID 326200
"District Nurse" was an ambitious portrait of district nurses at work in the UK. Funded jointly by the Foreign Office the Colonial Office and the Commonwealth Relations Office The film was directed by Sarah Erulkar, who had a notable track record as a director of social documentary films.
University of London ( click here to view from BFI) in 1963, this was a student recruitment tool sponsored by the Colonial Office for Commonwealth distribution. It paints a strikingly square picture of student life amid a conspicuously un-swinging London.
"New Look at London" was an aerial view of London by helicopter taking in the old and new iconic buildings of the capital city Directed by Terry Trench NFA ID 61426
"Letter From London (part of 3)" described the work of an English teacher at a school in Harlow New town. Produced in Arabic for the Foreign Office.
The following films were produced for use in the UK:
"No Claim Bonus" a recruiting film for the RAF that featured the Vulcan bomber. Made by Stewart Films. NFA ID74359
"Streaked Lightening" was about the new jet fighter.Directed by John Stewart NFA ID 294017
Both films were made for the Royal Air Force partly for public relations use and partly as recruiting films
"Traffic in Towns" looked at the problem of increased urban traffic. It featured a major report of the time by Professor Buchanan. Made by Realist Film Unit NFA ID 65049
"Britain at the Salonika Fair" a film about Britain's contribution to the Salonika Fair Produced by Frances Cockburn, directed by Annis James. NFA ID 64173
"The Controllers" described the intricate work of air traffic controllers through visits by trainee air traffic controllers. Made by World Wide Pictures, directed by Peter Watkins NFA ID 64957
"Handling the Catch" described the optimum conditions for handling catches of fish on board North Atlantic trawlers. Funded by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. directed by Dennis Shand NFA ID 766125
"At Your Request" describes the work of the National Library for Science and Technology to collect and promote scientific literature in the UK.Made by World Wide Pictures directed by Stephen Clarkson NFA ID 63145
"Ship Shape" shows the work of the Ship Division of the National Physical Laboratory to promote knowledge of ship design. Made by Technical and Scientific Films directed by Philip Dennis. NFA ID 64552
"Precise Measurement in Engineering" was about an aspect of the work of the National Physical Laboratory concerned with maintaining standards of measuring devices. Made by Film Workshop directed by Dennis Shand. NFA ID 64550
"One False Move" was a film to promote best practice to guard against cross-infection by staff in hospitals. Funded by the Ministry of Health.Made by Realist Film Unit directed by Rodney Geisler NFA ID 247198 "Rescue – One" follows the training of Naval Ratings in all aspects of fire fighting and rescue of crashed aircraft.Made by World Wide Pictures directed by Colin Bell NFA ID 63443
"Smoking and You" (click here to view from BFI)was about the risks of cigarette smoking presented to discourage smoking by young people. An important film among the many eventually produced to counter this addiction. Funded by the Ministry of Health and made by Derrick Knight. NFA ID 11226
1964:
12 documentary films were produced in 1964
"The Importance of Being E.R.N.I.E." was about the system that chose the winning numbers for the new premium bonds. Made by Realist Film Unit, directed by Neilson Baxter NFA ID 65009
This was one of three films unusually sponsored by the GPO. The other two films were:
"In Touch With the World" a film about different aspects of the work of the GPO.Made by Basic Films directed by John Fletcher NFA ID 6931
"Telecommunications” also for the GPO was a survey of modern communications systems. A film intended for students of 15+.Mades by Film Producers Guild directed by David Cons NFA ID 64765
"Today In Britain" was a roundup of British developments in industry, atomic power, education and sport touching also on inventive genius. Made by World Wide Pictures directed by Peter Hopkinson NFA ID 65127
It was one of three films funded by the FCO for the Overseas Information Services. The other two films were:
"The Gulf Links Us" described several aspects of UK involvement in the Persian Gulf. It was a film which could be used widely by FCO Posts for a variety of audiences particularly audiences invited to private screenings. Made by Chapman Raper and Associates. The film was directed by Jim Allen an ex- staff member of Film Division. NFA ID 86911
"The Blue Streak Rocket" was another film for the FCO. It described the early stages of the project that was designed to be part of the European Launcher Program. "Blue Streak" was directed by Derek Mayne who was at the time Film Division Head of Documentary Films. NFA ID 66352
"No Short Cut" was designed to promote the National Cycling Proficiency Scheme. It was directed by Anthony Simmons for Basic Films. NFA ID 64935
"Flight An Anthology" of verse, prose and music about flying. It includes the pleasure of getting above the clouds in jet planes and gliders. Verse supplied by eminent poets. Funded, somewhat astonishingly, by the Air Ministry. Directed by Robert Angell for Film Partnership. NFA ID 175075
"Packaging- Climatic Protection" is a more down to earth film funded by the Ministry of Aviation about the need for adequate protection of goods being dispatched by air freight.Made by Impact Productions and directed by Norman Hemsley NFA ID 66224
"The Smoking Machine " (click here to view from BFI) was a film aimed at children age 9+ to discourage smoking. It was part of the Anti smoking Campaign suggesting that it was not clever to smoke. A device to advance the message of the film is a contraption which smokes cigarettes automatically. Directed by Sarah Eurlkar for the Realist Film Unit. NFA ID 64657
"And Gladly Would He Learn" was a film designed to encourage British teachers to work in the developing countries of Africa. A great eagerness in Africa to learn was hampered by a shortage of teachers. Directed by Rodney Giesler for the Realist Film Unit. NFA ID 2764
"The Poet’s Eye" was a tribute to William Shakespeare in the year marking his 400th Anniversary. His words are blended with footage of 1960’s Britain to demonstrate the timelessness of his writing it was devised by Geoffrey Buckland-Smith. Made by Greenpark Productions and directed byGordon Hales. NFA ID 41478
1965
saw the production of 15 documentary films
Five of these films were made for the Royal Air Force.
"Winged Horizons" was a recruiting film for the Women’s Royal Air Force.Made by World Wide Pictures directed by Michael Gordon. NFA ID 65655
"Routine Adventure" showed an RAF team building a forward airstrip and a ground attack by Hunter aircraft was also a recruiting film. Made by Wyvern Films Directed by Peter Broderick NFA ID 273808
"Pedro 91" demonstrated the work of an air sea rescue helicopter. Made by United Motion Pictures directed by Brian Probyn. NFA ID 13407
"Red Arrows a Team of Seven" was a demonstration of their remarkable flying skills.Made by Mithras Films directed by James Roberts. NFA ID 13402 "Technical Officer" demonstrated the work of officers in Singapore and the UK. The film was intended for use by the RAF schools liaison team. directed by John Stewart. NFA ID 65653
"Voyage North" recorded the work of a naval officer aboard the submarine HMS Artemis as it traveled to the arctic to complete survey work under the ice fields. Made by RHR Films directed by Anthony Pelissier. NFA ID 65664
"National Savings School Bank" was for use in schools to encourage children to save.Made by Samaritan Films and directed by Stanley Willis NFA ID 7293
"Design for Today" was produced for the Design Council . It was intended to display as wide a range as possible of British domestic and industrial design. Without commentary or other narrative it relies on superb editing and music that works with a feeling of immense energy.Made by Camel Hudson Films directed Hugh Hudson NFA ID 68305
"School Is Everywhere" made for the Army describes the network of schools for the children of soldiers stationed overseas. Directed by Cliff Parris for World Wide Pictures. NFA ID 70652
"Liver Fluke Disease" explains the nature of this disease to farmers NFA ID 218784
"Less Air, Less Fire" explains that drafts from open doors and windows can worsen an outbreak of fire. It is not clear who the film was aimed at. Directed by Odran Walsh for Kinocrat Films. NFA ID 332432
"Blood Groups and Transfusion" made for the Ministry of Health explains methods by which blood groups are classified.Made by Helen Wiggins Films directed by A E C Hopkins. NFA ID 66091
"Winter Building" describes how some large and small building companies invest in equipment that allows the firms to operate during bad weather.Made by Dormar Productions directed by David Eady. NFA ID 68265
"Commonwealth Festival 1965" highlighted the Commonwealth Arts Festival held in Britain. Directed by Frank Cadman. NFA ID 4714
"National Savings School Bank School Cheque Scheme" explained the way the scheme worked. Made by Samariton Films directed by Stanley Willis. NFA ID 7293
1966
saw the production of 12 documentary films .
"Experiment in Teaching" was designed to advocate the use of course work in schools to promote creative and inventive teaching of science and technology in secondary schools. Made by World Wide Pictures, directed by Lawrence Crabb NFA ID 29025
"A Matter of Choice" was a recruiting film to encourage girls to join the Women’s Royal Air Force. Made by World Wide Pictures directed by James Allen NFA ID6 7525
"Someone Special" was a recruiting film for the Women’s Royal Naval Service. Made by World Wide Pictures directed by Derek Conrad NFA ID 70663
"Can I Help You" was portrait of the work of the Citizens Advice Bureau in the UK. Funded by the Foreign Office, directed by John Fletcher for Basic Films. NFA ID 6928
"Ships For The World " (click here to view from BFI) Britain touts its marine construction expertise in this film from 1966. All stages of production and types of vessel are covered - from research into the design of cargo ships to the fitting out of passenger liners, with an emphasis on the endless search for 'modern methods' which would attract potential custom. A description of the UK ship building industry funded by the Foreign Office.Made by J Arthur Rank Film Productions directed by Daniel Ingram NFA ID 11037
"Racing Cyclist" (click here to view from BFI) an insight into lightweight racing cycle manufacture, through the eyes of an artist from the Caribbean. Made to introduce overseas audiences to British life, the film features 'Harry', a rising star in amateur cycle racing - actually cycle legend Barry Witcomb. 'Harry' introduces the machines he rides, explains how they are constructed and gives an inside take on the sport. NFA ID N-192182
"More Power from Water" considered the ways in which water could provide energy. Made by Film workshop directed by Dennis Shand. NFA ID 69515
"Approaching Automation" examined the implications of the increasing use of automation in industry. Made by Helen Wiggins Productions directed by A E Hopkins NFA ID 67875
The Ministry of Technology funded two films.
"Radar Basic Principles" made for the Army to explain the nature of radar and the various receivers. Made by Stewart Hardy Films NFA IDn86757
"Key to the Future" portrayed the work of government training centres in helping men who wished to learn a new skilled craft. Made by Film Producers Guild directed by Anthony Short NFA ID 34616
"The Driving Force" described the huge modernisation programme under which the change from steam to diesel engines on Britain’s railways took place. Directed by James Ritchie for British Transport Films NFA ID 5017
"The Slender Span" celebrated the building of the new suspension bridge across the River Severn. Directed by Gerry Wilson for Insight Productions and funded by the Ministry of Transport. NFA ID 461
"Horizons Unlimited" reviewed the British aircraft industry in terms of past achievements and production plans for the future. Directed by Glyn Jones for World Wide Pictures . NFA ID 60379
1967
saw the production of 11 documentary films
"Ulster Today" was a portrait of Ulster it’s economy, it’s scenic beauty as seen by two foreign industrialists planning to invest in the province. Made for the Government of Northern Ireland. Directed by James Allen for World Wide Pictures. NFA ID 71795
"Health in Hot Climates" made for the Army explains the process of acclimatisation and the principles of maintaining health in hot climates. Made by World Wide Pictures directed by Derek Conrad NFA ID 70928
"The Muck Problem" reviewed the issues for modern farms of disposing of manure and urine. Made for the Ministry of Agriculture by Helen Wiggins Productions. NFA ID 239266
"Shop Window for Export" was about the Board of Trade attendance at a trade fair in Lyon to promote British consumer goods. The film demonstrates the value of taking part in such trade fairs. Directed by Brigit Barry for Samaritan Films. NFA ID 843
"The Post Office Tower of London" was a tour of the tower explaining how it is used for communications nationally. Directed by Bob Osborne for J Arthur Rank Film Productions. NFA ID 3225
"Search and Research" an impression of the broad field of research and product testing in the oil industry. Made for the Building Research Establishment. Directed by Eric Marquis for Verity Films. NFA ID 69798
"Dying For a Smoke" (click here to view from BFI) an anti smoking film about two young men addicted to smoking. This animation film is aimed at pursuading young people not to smoke. Produced by Halas and Batchelor for the Ministry of Health. NFA ID N-719345
"Blood Is Life" (click here to view from BFI) described the organisation of the National Transfusion Service to encourage the giving of blood. Made by Basic Films directed by Anthony Simmons. NFA ID 14428
Four films were made for the Overseas Information Services:
"Consider Science" reviewed scientific progress in Britain over the previous 50 years illustrated by some archival material together with new material of progress in pure and applied science. It was used as an aspect of projection of Britain and a forerunner of numerous science programmes produced in the decades of the 1970s through to the 1990s.Directed by Peter de Normanville. NFA ID 69195
"Speaking of Britain" a number of young technologists, scientists and others discuss their aims and ideals and the contribution they are making to a better and more progressive future. Directed by Jim Clark for James Archibald. NFA ID 71788
"Britain at the Fair" was a record of the British Pavilion at the Expo 67 Exhibition at Montreal. NFA ID 9702
"Opus 1967" was commissioned by the Foreign Office(FCO) through the COI Exhibitions Division as part of the British Pavilion at the 1967 International Expo at Montreal. Expo 67 was regarded as one of the most successful of the international fairs attracting some 50 million visitors.
It had been decided to commission an 18 minute film about art and culture in Britain. While the lead contact was the COI Exhibitions Division commissioned film was handled by the Home Documentary Film section and followed the traditional path of briefing and commissioning a documentary film company. The briefing would probably have been partly from the FCO and partly from the creative designers of the Pavilion though this is not certain.
Since the film was to be part of a major international exhibition, the choice of production company was important: it had to be a company with a track record of high quality films in the arts. The choice was James Archibald Productions Ltd. The company had a track record of films produced for the Arts Council, the British Council and the COI.
The brief from the FCO was quite simple. They wanted a film which reflected the cultural life of Britain both in the arts and design in traditional mode and contemporary settings. Everything from Shakespeare to Mary Quant. Such a broad brief for an 18 minute film predicated an impressionistic approach. The FCO were keen that the film should be an impressive statement in an international context. To that end a budget of £100,000 was allocated: an expensive film in its time.
At a late stage in the production (rough cut) the film was presented to Frances Cockburn then Deputy Director of Film Division. Alarm bells started to ring about the nature of the film in the context of comprehension by an international audience at the Exhibition. Particular concern was expressed about a sequence from the Peter Brook production of the play Death of Marat Sade. There was concern too about the overall impression of British culture that the film portrayed.
The film was then shown to FCO who shared the COI concerns. A somewhat fractious discussion ensued with James Archibald who declined to make any changes. Given that the opening of Expo was imminent FCO and COI reluctantly accepted that the film should go ahead. None of these concerns or doubts should suggest that "Opus" directed by Don Levy was anything other than a first class piece of film making.
"Opus" was screened in a separate area since it was an 18 minute film. People came and went, probably only a small proportion of visitors sat through the whole film.
The eventual view of Film Division senior staff and, so far as we could tell, the FCO, was of disappointment. By contrast with a number of other Pavilions, the moving image content of the British Pavilion was not great given that a theme for Expo was to demonstrate the potential for using moving pictures in new ways.
Film Division felt that in some degree it had failed the client (FCO). The context for the failure was that the Division was only a peripheral part of the team that was led by the Exhibitions Division. FCO was the client and provided a broad brush oversight but one which was unlikely to understand the implications of the theme in the context of “new ways of using moving pictures”, but also in the context of an International Exhibition.
It was one of few occasions that Film Division felt it had failed a client for a major project. "Opus 1967" was subsequently used as a stand alone film where it was highly regarded. NFA ID 40249 NA ID INF6/2164
1968
saw the production of 10 documentary films.
Two films were for the Department of Education both of them produced by World Wide Pictures.
"Experiment in Teaching" intended to be shown to both teachers and children to stimulate the use of project work to provide a creative and inventive environment for the teaching of applied science and technology. Made by World Wide Pictures and directed by Lawrence Crabb NFA ID 29025
"The Happy Ending" intended to be shown to students and parents to alert them to the opportunities in tertiary education with the aim of encouraging more students to take up courses in the new Polytechnics with a “happy ending” for those who earned degrees. Made by World Wide Pictures directed by Glyn Jones NFA ID 31775
"When They Leave School" offered vocational guidance through the Youth Employment Service. Made by World Wide Pictures directed by David Morphet. NFA ID 70714
"Unit Beat Policing" was an instructional film for police forces on a new unit beat policing scheme designed to make local policing more efficient in terms of using of manpower.Made by Element films directed by Colin Leighton NFA ID 377913
"A Career In The Police" was a film designed to demonstrate career opportunities through the Police College. Made by Film Produces Guild directed by Michael Forlong NFA ID 137980
"A Moment’s Reflection" was a film about car handling and the vital importance of not allowing one’s driving judgement to be influenced by a need to hurry. Funded by the Department for Transport. Made by World Wide Pictures directed by David Morphet. NFA ID 71324
"Cell 4" was a report on the High Altitude Test Plant used to test aircraft engines: one of the largest in Europe. Cell 4 tested engines for Concorde. Directed by Robert Parker for Lion Pacesetter. NFA ID 61558
"Harvest For Tomorrow" was intended to encourage agricultural specialists to work in Africa to improve agriculture methods so as to raise the living standards of peasant farmers.Made by RHR Productions directed by Rodney Giesler. NFA ID 189487
"Timepiece" a recruiting film for the RAF through the events of a typical day. Made by world wide Pictures directed by James Allen NFA ID 72185
"A Testing Time" one woman’s experience of taking a driving test is interwoven with the training of an examiner over a four week period.Made by RHR Productions directed by David Eady NFA ID 60365
1969
saw the production of 10 documentary films
"On Hand To Listen" was intended for a general audience to explain something of the nature of mental illness and the services available to help. It attempted to correct many misconceptions about the nature of mental illness. Produced by Samaritan Films and directed by Brigit Barry. NFA ID 72273
"Probation After Care" in another aspect of social care attempted to portray the petty criminal and the help available to him through the Probation Service.
"The Engineer Is A Woman" was intended for school girls of 13-18 age range. To counter the idea that engineering was only for boys by looking at 5 case studies of successful women engineers. Funded by the Ministry of Technology, directed by John Sharples for Anvil films. NFA ID 72270
"Handling Frozen Fish" was also funded by Ministry of Technology. It was designed to remind those handling fish from the quayside to the retailer of the way each stage had to be managed to improve the quality of the end product. Made by Gannet Films directed by David Eady NFA ID 74479
"The Circulating Water Channel" (click here to view from BFI) at one of the world's most advanced laboratories for naval architects, water can be made to flow uniformly and with a level surface past experimental designs for a ship's hull. These experiments assist in the design of new and better ships, and in helping to understand the effect of flowing water on many other kinds of marine structure. A number of experiments can take place providing information of value to naval architects and ship builders. Funded by the Ministry of Technology. Made by Television Reporters International. NFA ID72352
"Keys To Metrication No 1" was aimed at businesses about how to start the changeover to metrication. Made by New Decade Films NFA ID 61431
"All Change" introduced decimalisation, the change from £. s.d to the new decimal currency.It sets out the benefits for small shopkeepers. Both these films were made for the Metrication Board as part of an on-going campaign. Made by World Wide Pictures directed by Stephen Clarkson NFA ID 113791
"The Employment Services" introduced the range of services on offer to employers . directed by John Sharples for Anvil Films. NFA ID 165425
"Looking After the Navy" outlined the range of career opportunities for medical assistants and nurses in the Royal Navy.Made by Gerard Holdsworth Productions directed by Victor Menzies NFA ID 85942
"Rabbits Or Profits" was a film for farmers about the need and methods to control the population of rabbits.Made by Kinocrat Films directed y Gerald Cookson. NFA ID 11049
"Probation After Care" was a sympathetic portrayal of the petty criminal and the help that can be provided by the probation officer. NFA ID 9848
"Something to Offer (click here to view from BFI) filmed at a Plymouth day hospital, this is a consistently interesting documentary on mental health and psychiatric services. Commissioned by the DHSS as a psychiatric nursing recruitment tool, it started life in a version called On Hand to Listen. Something to Offer is a shorter edit intended for television: it was broadcast by ITV, serving both the recruitment campaign and a broader public education remit. The film was made by Samaritan Films. That the film so easily transferred to television illustrates a trend in sponsored documentary film that was growing. Its low-key, sober but warm and fluent style, marked by Peter Jessop’s mobile 16mm camerawork and a mixture of observation and interview, is reminiscent of television documentary. It captures a time of great change in psychiatry, moving away from stand-alone mental institutions to integration with general hospitals and what was later termed care in the community. Directed by Bridgit Barry NFA ID 61574
For lists of documentary films made between 1960 and 1969 please go to the "Films We Made" heading on the navigation bar. It is very possible that not all the documentary films made in this period have been identified. If you have any information about any other films please write in through "Contact Us".