In a captivating move, legendary actor Sir Ian McKellen will lend his talents to bring the renowned artist L.S. Lowry’s own words to life in a forthcoming BBC documentary. The one-hour film, titled “LS Lowry: The Unheard Tapes,” will delve into the artist’s intimate thoughts and reflections, drawing upon previously unbroadcast recordings made towards the end of his life.
The documentary, set to air on BBC Two and iPlayer, will feature Sir Ian McKellen lip-syncing Lowry’s own voice, providing a unique window into the artist’s ambitions, regrets, and humour. “To give play to Lowry through his own voice has been a unique privilege,” McKellen remarked, adding that the tapes “reveal an intimate insight into the artist’s thoughts.”
Marking the 50th anniversary of Lowry’s death, the film will also explore the evolution of the industrial landscapes of the north-west of England, a subject that was often central to the artist’s iconic paintings and drawings. “This film isn’t just about the life of the artist, it also provides an insight into the realities of urban life in the north of England in the 20th Century,” said Mark Bell, BBC Arts commissioning editor.
The casting of McKellen, along with actress Annabel Smith, is seen as an “echo of the age and energy between Lowry and Angela,” the young fan who originally interviewed the artist. This artistic interplay, as Bell described, “feels like life imitating art in the best possible way.”
Fans of Lowry’s work, as well as those interested in the social and cultural history of the region, will undoubtedly be captivated by this unique opportunity to hear the artist’s own voice brought to life by the acclaimed Sir Ian McKellen. The documentary promises to offer a rare and intimate glimpse into the mind of one of Britain’s most celebrated artists.
