Franc Roddam
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Francis George Roddam (born 29 April 1941, Norton, Stockton-on-Tees) is an English film director and documentary maker. He is best known for the film Quadrophenia and the early reality television series The Family.
In the mid sixties Roddam worked in advertising as a copy writer - the hero of Quadrophenia also works for an advertising firm. He attended the London Film School making his first short film The Birthday (1969) was nominated for a BAFTA leading to The Family (1974) and, in 1976, a memorable documentary in the BBC's Inside Story strand about a 11 year-old arsonist called "Mini". In 1977 he really made his name by producing and directing a controversial, searing docu-drama called "Dummy", which was watched by 14 million viewers and told the sad, sordid and unforgettable story of Sandra, a deaf & dumb girl who descended into prostitution and degradation as a used and abused prostitute on the streets of Bradford. She was portrayed by Geraldine James in an astonishingly powerful performance which won her the Prix Italia and established her reputation as an actress of tremendous talent.
Franc directed Quadrophenia in 1979, loosely based on The Who's 1973 album of the same name which told the story of Jimmy, a teenager, and his involvement in the early-60s mods and rockers phenomenon. There was a burgeoning Mod Revival at the time, partially inspired by the film. The film has developed a cult status but, unlike his near contemporaries Ridley Scott and Alan Parker, Roddam did not establish himself in the US. His first Hollywood film The Bride was a flop and his work since has been sporadic.
Roddam is also credited with creating the series Auf Wiedersehen, Pet reflecting his roots in North East England.
