The Essay: British Film Comedians
- Radio documentary
- BBC Radio 3
- 2015
- 5 episodes (1 series)
A selection of episodes from Simon Heffer's long-running radio show focusing on mid-20th century British comedy actors. Features Simon Heffer, Will Hay, Alastair Sim, Terry-Thomas, Tony Hancock and Sid James
Episode menu
Series 1, Episode 2 - Alastair Sim
Simon Heffer discusses the life and work of Alastair Sim, perhaps best remembered for a definitive interpretation of Scrooge.
Further details
Simon recalls the run of classic comedies in which Sim perfected his role as a slightly ambivalent, often incompetent and occasionally threatening presence: The Happiest Days Of Your Life, Laughter In Paradise, Captain Boycott and An Inspector Calls.
Simon concludes by revealing the little-known story of how Sim came to play the main roles in a film which has become a landmark of British cinema: The Belles Of St Trinian's.
Broadcast details
- Date
- Tuesday 14th April 2015
- Time
- 10:45pm
- Channel
- BBC Radio 3
- Length
- 15 minutes