Key Information
Register:
NationalYear of Inscription:
2023Type of Heritage:
CollectionNominating Institution:
University of BristolLink to Website:
bristol.ac.uk/library/special-collections/strengths/wildfilm
Wildlife Filmmaking Oral Histories Collection
The Wildlife Filmmaking Oral Histories Collection is a series of oral history video interviews and transcripts with wildlife film-makers which were recorded between 1998-2011. The recordings capture unique technical details and biographical information which demonstrate the fascinating narrative of wildlife documentary making in the UK. They form a key part of the Wildlife Archive at the University of Bristol.
Britain holds a unique place in the history of wildlife documentaries and the development of this specialism, along with the careers of the individuals who helped pioneer it, are recorded.
Bristol is a UNESCO city of film, in part due to the role the City has played in Wildlife film making since the establishment of the BBC Natural History Unit (est 1957) and the associated film production companies, which has led to its reputation as the ‘Green Hollywood’. The Wildfilm Archive preserves many of these precious recordings including recordings of interviews with key people in the oral histories collection.
First ever attempt to film wild penguins underwater by Douglas Fisher F.R.P.S. © Jeffery Boswall
