Two-part documentary telling the story of Harry Birrell, one of Scotland’s most prolific 20th-century film-makers. A sequel to the 2019 documentary, Films of Love & War, it is directed by BAFTA winning director Matt Pinder and narrated by Richard Madden (Marvel’s Eternals, 1917, Bodyguard).
The first episode takes us back to before the WWII, where Harry’s journey with film began. He captures in vivid detail his army training at Hamilton Barracks and Dunbar as he and the troops prepare for battle. On his return from war, Harry turns to the Scottish mountains for his next adventure, as he becomes an active member of the fledgling Scottish ski scene and records his alpine adventures.
Episode two showcases Harry's personal documentaries filmed from the 1950s onwards, including a water-skiing competition on Loch Earn, the last days of the Glasgow tram service and the Queen's state visit to George Square. The footage is intercut with the films he made with his children as they grew up in the 50s and 60s, portraying a universal experience that is nostalgic and deeply poignant.
The first episode begins 27th July at 10pm on BBC Scotland and concludes with episode two on August 3rd. Available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
