16mm Filmography
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THE SONG OF CEYLON

Other videos (2)
Examines the life style of the Ceylonese people, observing their architecture, customs, and ceremonies. Shows the harvesting of copra and tea and the dancing of the Islanders. Views a sacred mountain, a large statue of Buddha, and the attire on the statues of the different gods. Directed by John Grierson., A lyrical impression of Sri Lanka (Ceylon) and its people. A British documentary evoking sensual imagery in its construction, and contrapuntal use of natural sound. In four parts: The Buddha, The Virgin Island, The Voices of Commerce, The Apparel of a God.

Credits

Directed by
Basil Wright
Written by
John Grierson
Produced by
John Grierson
Cinematography
Basil Wright, John Taylor
Music
Walter Leigh
Edited by
Basil Wright
Complete catalog record
A poetic interpretation of the life and customs of the people of Ceylon, showing the contrast between the culture of the Singalese of the island, and the western economic outlook. One of the most famous of the GPO Film Unit’s productions, this film helped to build the reputation of the British documentary film movement. ‘The Song of Ceylon’ is in four sections, 1. The Buddha, 2. The Virgin island, 3. The Voice of commerce, 4. The Apparel of God. Sponsored by the Ceylon Tea Propaganda Board. Music by Walter Leigh. Photographed by Basil Wright.

Sources

  1. 16mm Filmography (legacy record) — title, year, creator, video
  2. BERKELEY ART MUSEUM AND PACIFIC FILM ARCHIVE · record ↗ — title, year, creator, length, format, color, sound, description, credits
  3. Wikidata · Q2414330 ↗ — length, color, country, genre, credits
  4. Internet Archive · record ↗ — title, year, creator, length, color, sound, description, catalog record, video
  5. 16mm Filmography editors — description, catalog record

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