Terence Davies, the esteemed British writer-director known for his deeply personal and autobiographical films, has passed away at the age of 77. The news was confirmed by Davies’ official Instagram account, stating that he died peacefully at home after a short illness.
Davies gained international recognition with his films “Distant Voices, Still Lives” and “The Long Day Closes,” both set in his hometown of Liverpool, England. These critically acclaimed works explored his own experiences growing up as a gay, Catholic man in the 1950s and ’60s.
One of Davies’ most notable films was his 2008 documentary, “Of Time and the City,” which premiered at the Cannes Film Festival. The documentary delved into his childhood and the city of Liverpool, using archival footage, voiceovers, classical music, and literary excerpts to create a poignant and introspective film.
In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Davies discussed the emotional process behind “Of Time and the City” and the struggles he faced in reconciling his faith with his sexuality. He touched upon the guilt and shame he felt as a result of his Catholic upbringing and how it influenced his personal and artistic journey.
Throughout his career, Davies received praise for his unique and deeply personal storytelling. His earlier works, such as “Distant Voices, Still Lives” and “The Long Day Closes,” set the bar high for him as a filmmaker. In his final film, “Benediction,” Davies openly explored romantic love between men, a subject that had subtly appeared in his previous works.
Born in Liverpool in 1945, Davies was the youngest of 10 children. He attended the Coventry Drama School and wrote the screenplay for the autobiographical short film “Children,” the first part of a trilogy reflecting on his early life and eventual death. Following the success of his early films, Davies made his first American film, “The Neon Bible,” in 1995, but it received a mixed reception.
Despite being globally recognized, Davies struggled to secure financing for his projects due to the British film industry’s focus on mass-market appeal. However, he persisted and went on to make films such as “The House of Mirth,” “The Deep Blue Sea,” “Sunset Song,” and “A Quiet Passion.”
Davies’ final film, “Benediction,” was released in 2021. It showcased his unique ability to intertwine poetry and cinema, a signature aspect of his filmmaking style. Despite the lack of institutional recognition in Britain, Davies believed that the true reward for a film is its enduring impact on audiences.
Terence Davies leaves behind a legacy of powerful and introspective storytelling. His films will continue to captivate audiences and inspire future filmmakers for years to come.