Lindsay Anderson Quotes

A collection of quotes by Lindsay Anderson.

Lindsay Anderson (1923-1994) was a renowned British film director and theatre critic, best known for his contributions to the Free Cinema movement in the 1950s and his critically acclaimed film "If...." Born on April 17, 1923, in Bangalore, India, Anderson later moved to England where he studied at Cheltenham College and Wadham College, Oxford.

Anderson initially pursued a career in journalism, working as a film critic for various publications including the Tribune and Sight & Sound magazine. His astute and insightful analysis garnered attention and respect from the industry, establishing him as a prominent figure in film criticism during the 1940s and 1950s.

In the mid-1950s, Anderson co-founded the Free Cinema movement with Karel Reisz and Tony Richardson. This movement aimed to challenge the conventions of British cinema and give voice to independent filmmakers. Anderson's involvement in this movement led to his directorial debut with "Every Day Except Christmas" in 1957, a documentary highlighting the lives of workers in London's Covent Garden market.

However, it was his sophomore film, "This Sporting Life" (1963), a gritty portrayal of a rugby player's troubled life, that brought him critical acclaim and international recognition. Anderson continued to create thought-provoking films, often delving into themes of social and political commentary, notably "If...." (1968), which starred a young Malcolm McDowell and explored rebellion and anarchy in a traditional English boarding school.

Throughout his career, Anderson remained a vocal advocate for independent filmmaking, challenging the prevailing commercial norms and championing creative freedom. His contributions to British cinema and commitment to artistic integrity solidified his status as a notable figure in the industry. Lindsay Anderson passed away on August 30, 1994, but his work and legacy continue to inspire filmmakers and cinephiles alike.