Under Milk Wood

Dylan Thomas wrote Under Milk Wood as a radio play in 1954. In an earlier film version from 1972, Elizabeth Taylor plays one of the roles. Here we see a full day in the imaginary Welsh fishing village Llareggub. We meet the dreams ailing the villagers before it's time for mass at church. Life is pervaded by fishing and the sea, but also all aquatic creatures. The cast is endless, with both living and dead beings. Over the day we follow, among others, the mailman who is the ambulating switchboard for local gossip. The film is an outstanding drama whose photography, sound and music create a holistic cinematic gestalt. As is often the case with British film, this one has a wonderful ensemble of actors in roles both big and small. (Göteborg Film Festival)