Rent Walter (1983)
3.8 of 5 from 51 ratings
3h 57min
- General info
- Available formats
- Synopsis:
Featuring a remarkable performance by Ian McKellen and directed by Stephen Frears (The Queen), 'Walter' remains one of the most acclaimed and poignant dramas ever made for British television the first ever Film on Four, it was chosen as the centrepiece drama for the launch night of Channel Four in 1982. This release comprises the original BAFTA-nominated play, and 'Walter and June', a sequel screened in 1983 co-starring Sarah Miles. Also included is 'Loving Walter' - a movie-length edition that blends material from both films as well as previously unseen footage. 'Walter', adapted by David Cook from his award-winning novel, is set in the early 1960's and tells the disturbing story of a man with mental and physical disabilities who is left at the mercy of society's attitudes following the death of his parents. The play's unflinching treatment of its subject inevitably shocked, but also drew overwhelming praise from viewers and critics, with McKellen receiving a Royal Television Society award for his harrowing, rigorously researched portrayal. 'Walter and June', again written by Cook and directed by Frears, picks up Walter's story nineteen years on. It charts the friendships he has formed, and the tender, life-changing but precarious relationship that develops between Walter and mercurial fellow patient June, as the two leave the confines of the hospital to face an uncertain future in London. - Actors:
- Ian McKellen, Barbara Jefford, Arthur Whybrow, Tony Melody, David Ryall, Linda Polan, Keith Allen, Lesley Clare O'Neill, Paula Tilbrook, Marjorie Yates, Jim Broadbent, Kenny Ireland, Don McKillop, Nabil Shaban, Bob Flag, Robert Walker, John Surman, Trevor Laird, Robin Hooper, Stephen Petcher
- Directors:
- Stephen Frears
- Producers:
- Richard Creasey, Nigel Evans
- Writers:
- David Cook
- Aka:
- Loving Walter
- Studio:
- Network
- Genres:
- British TV, TV Dramas
- Collections:
- The Instant Expert's Guide, The Instant Expert's Guide to Stephen Frears
