Tony Benn: Will and Testament (2014) User Reviews

Good political doc

[Skint111 · 7/10 · 8 September 2022]

Documentary about the life and career of Labour politician Tony Benn.

In what was a slightly ghoulish turn, Benn died shortly before this film was completed, but here he is to discuss his eventful existence in detail, either in his kitchen or in a dark virtual set - there is also a mass of archive footage, which immerses the viewer in Britain's recent past.

He was always a sharply intelligent person, if wrong on most issues, and thus this makes for always interesting viewing, although it's evident that the director is not keen on any negative light being cast on his subject.

The DVD has some extra interview footage; more still would have been welcome.

Stunning

[Vithyn · 10/10 · 29 January 2024]

One of the most beautiful documentaries and probably the most noble of send offs for a national hero.

Released shortly following Benn's death, Will and Testament is an in depth and full insight into his life. From being born the son of a Viscount, a natural aristocrat to fighting for working people against successive governments and wars, Benn had a spectacular political career based on his own morals from an early onset. You couldn't buy him. From being one of the "most dangerous men in Britain" according to the press, to a national treasure.

Benn warns of the dangers of modern capitalism with the control of society and democratic accountability being in the hands of the few bourgeois, the implementation of austerity measures and so on.

The music, Benn's narration, and the archival footage all add to this spectacle and his one final hurrah in a thorough review of a key figure of our history.

This is a must-watch for any political student or enthusiast.

We will never see the likes again. Thank you for your service Mr Benn, rest in peace sir.