Broken English Review: Celebrating Marianne Faithfull’s Eccentric Legacy

A new documentary about music icon Marianne Faithfull premiered at the Venice Film Festival. The film is titled “Broken English” after her acclaimed 1979 album. It explores her six-decade career in music and film.

Directors Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard crafted the unique tribute. It features interviews with Faithfull from before her death in 2024.

A Unique Cinematic Portrait of an Icon

The film blends several storytelling styles. It includes candid conversations with Faithfull herself. It also features covers of her songs by famous admirers like Courtney Love.

Staged vignettes are performed by actors including Tilda Swinton. These scenes add a layer of artistic interpretation. According to industry reports, the approach is similar to the directors’ previous work on Nick Cave.

Chronicling a Legendary Life and Career

The documentary covers Faithfull’s entire life story. It moves from her start in the 1960s as a pop ingenue. It details her rise to counterculture fame and her well-documented personal struggles.

Her resilience and artistic reinvention are central themes. The film highlights her work across music, theater, and cinema. It celebrates her status as a enduring cultural figure.

The “Broken English” documentary serves as a powerful final testament to a true original. It ensures Marianne Faithfull’s legendary voice and story will not be forgotten.

Info at your fingertips

Who directed the Marianne Faithfull documentary?

The film was directed by Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard. They are known for their innovative film about musician Nick Cave.

When did “Broken English” premiere?

The documentary premiered at the Venice Film Festival. The exact premiere date was not specified in initial reports.

Does the film include performances of her music?

Yes, it features other artists covering her songs. Performers include Beth Orton and Jehnny Beth.

What is the film’s runtime?

“Broken English” has a reported runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It is a feature-length documentary.

Was Marianne Faithfull involved in the project?

Yes, she participated in interviews for the film. These were conducted shortly before her passing earlier this year.