Keith Withall
Biography
I live in West Yorkshire. I have been enjoying movies since 1948 when I first saw Bambi. My taste in films since then has widened to include political films like Mapantsula [1988] and Bollywood extravaganzas like Mother India [1957]. I am suspicious of lists, but would put Sergei Eisenstein at the top of my favourite filmmakers.
I regularly attend the Giornate del Cinema Muto and Il Cinema Ritrovato. I teach film part-time, mainly to adult students. I was on the Associate Tutor Scheme when it was live. And I contribute regularly to the Blog ITP World. I also watch films at home with my partner Dusty, though he is usually more interested in his chews.
Supporting statement
I realise being one Governor among a number means one has a limited influence. Also that an important role is to support the work of the Bfi, especially their Archive and Education activities. But I also believe that other are some improvements that should be suggested and argued for.
One would be ways of keeping members informed and allow them to express views on current debates. I would want to see if some sort of ‘Blog’ facility could be developed on the BFI Website, where there could be regular report backs regarding the Governors debates and activities, and also where members could make suggestions and comments.
I also think that the BFI activities outside of London need developing. In an issue of the BFI Guide last year, out of 80 pages only five were devoted to Around the UK. This included only one event, in Liverpool, and four pages on digital and web matters. This would be an area where suggestions from members living outside London could be fertile.
I also think some of the London based activities could be improved in this respect. For example, the library only opens weekdays, and there is not even a late opening on Fridays. Since this is a unique facility extending this would be of benefit to members in the regions.
Dusty wants me to propose a season of canine movies at the NFT and on Tour, but I am open to views on that one.
