Every Good Boy Deserves Favour
Every Good Boy Deserves Favour

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Every Good Boy Deserves Favour

1979
Movie
0
English

Every Good Boy Deserves Favour is a stage play by Tom Stoppard with music by André Previn. It was first performed in 1977. The play criticizes the Soviet practice of treating political dissidence as a form of mental illness. Its title derives from the popular mnemonic used by music students to remember the notes on the lines of the treble clef. The filming was undertaken at a live performance at Wembley Conference Centre in April 1978, conducted by Previn.

Insights

IMDb7.1/10
Director: John GlenisterGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

A young man, Simon, is institutionalized in a psychiatric hospital after suffering a mental breakdown. He struggles to come to terms with his illness and the harsh realities of the institution. As he navigates the complex relationships with his fellow patients and the staff, Simon begins to find glimmers of hope and connection amidst the despair. The film explores themes of mental health, societal perceptions, and the enduring human spirit.

Critical Reception

The 1979 BBC television play 'Every Good Boy Deserves Favour' garnered significant attention for its sensitive and unflinching portrayal of life within a psychiatric institution. Critics lauded its powerful performances, particularly from Tom Bell as the troubled protagonist, and its thought-provoking script that humanized its characters and challenged stigmas surrounding mental illness. The production was praised for its realism and emotional resonance, making it a memorable and impactful piece of television drama.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its strong dramatic performances and realistic depiction of institutional life.

  • Commended for its sensitive and humanizing portrayal of mental illness.

  • Considered a powerful and thought-provoking piece of television drama.

Google audience: Information regarding specific audience reviews on Google for this 1979 television play is not readily available.

Fun Fact

The title 'Every Good Boy Deserves Favour' is a mnemonic device used to remember the order of the lines on the treble clef in music (E, G, B, D, F).

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