Eight years in the making, and produced with the full co-operation of his family, Thomas Hamilton’s documentary, Leslie Howard: The Man Who Gave a Damn, turns a long overdue spotlight on an actor sometimes eclipsed by his role in Gone with the Wind (1939). The irony of Howard’s involvement in what became the ultimate Hollywood blockbuster is that in his time he carved one of the most unique careers in 1930s Hollywood, taking control of his films in a way few of his contemporaries would dream of.

A man of strong principals, despite an outward appearance of absent minded vagueness, he took a stand for other actors, most famously Humphrey Bogart in The Petrified Forest (1936), less famously William Gargan and Ilka Chase in The Animal Kingdom (1932). Later he insisted on returning to England as World War II began in order to contribute to the war effort – which made him an enemy and possible target of the Nazis.

A compelling, intimate documentary, boasting much unseen footage of Howard and those he knew.

Narrated by Derek Partridge, music by Maria Antal.

Interviewees: Leslie Ruth Howard (Doodie), Norman Spencer, Prof Doug Wheeler, Matthew Sweet, Mark Burgess, Quentin Falk, Prof Nick Cull and John Houseman, Irene Howard, Ronald Howard & Michael Powell (from a 1980 programme).

Doors open at 18.30, for a 19.30 start.

Refreshments will be available in our licenced cafe/bar.

TICKETS & PRICING

Autumn Season 2015 ticketing applies.

Advance tickets may be purchased from Billetto, or direct from the Museum by calling 020 7840 2200 in office hours.