Desert Island Films – Matthew Graham
Tue Mar 2024Desert Island Films Ed. 4
Imagine being trapped on an island with nothing to do; no phones, no laptops, no wifi and the boring old commodities like food and water. But have no fear! Your island does, for some reason, come complete with a state of the art cinema with a lovely big screen and eight of your most beloved, favourite films of all time!
We have interviewed a number of people of note that are connected to the historical city of Bath. Fourth, is the British television writer, Matthew Graham.
Matthew Graham
Matthew started his writing life at the tender age of 23 writing for “Byker Grove” and “EastEnders”. After a decade of being a ‘jobbing’ writer, he created ITV’s apocalyptic drama serial “The Last Train”. He eventually went on to co-create BBC hit drama “Life On Mars” and its sequel “Ashes To Ashes”.
Subsequently, he has adapted Arthur C Clarke’s “Childhood’s End”, as well as writing and co-showrunning “The Spanish Princess” along with his wife Emma Frost. He has also worked with George Lucas in the early days of turning “Star Wars” into a TV show.
Matthew has been living near to Bath for over 20 years. He and Emma made “The Spanish Princess” in the area and Matthew also made a BBC drama, “Bonekickers” in Bath in 2008.
Matthew’s love for film
I love movies because they are utterly transportive. Also whatever the film, the moment the lights dim I get that tingly anticipation that has never left me since I was a kid.
1. Lawrence of Arabia, David Lean, 1962
One of those rare moments when the quality of the film-making is matched by the brilliance of the screenplay. Only to be seen on the biggest of screens.
2. Brazil, Terry Gilliam, 1985
Funny, chilling, romantic, unique. Bizarrely I find solace in its dystopian comedy.
3. 2001: A Space Odyssey, Stanley Kubrick, 1968
It places all of human life into perspective and is as mesmerising today as when I first saw it.
4. The Exorcist, William Friedkin, 1973
Horror movies are rarely as terrifying or as insightful on the Catholic mindset. The sound work on this picture is still incredible 50 years on.
5. A Matter of Life and Death, Emeric Pressburger, Michael Powell, 1946
The opening exchange between a dying pilot and an American air force gal is still the most beautiful and romantic moment in any film. Bravura film-making and manages to be heart-on-sleeve sentimental and wryly subversive at the same time. No mean trick!
6. Star Wars, George Lucas, 1977
The original. It blew my mind and opened up my imagination. From that moment on I decided I wanted to be in the film business. You could say it’s the film that defines me.
7. Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Steven Spielberg, 1977
I have spent my life trying to emulate the epic yet intimate structure of the script. Its visuals have never been surpassed.
8. The Godfather, Francis Ford Coppola, 1972
No matter when it’s on, if I start watching I watch til the end. The best characters ever committed to cinema. And Michael’s arc through the film is arguably the greatest ever committed.
Thanks to Matthew for his Desert Island Films! Look out for the next in our series, coming out in June!