Arena Season 1988

Woody Guthrie was born into a family made rich by the Oklahoma oil boom. But by the time he was eight years old, his mother was in an insane asylum and his father had lost every penny. His personal life was a catalogue of tragedy and disease, yet he had a vision that inspired two generations of Americans. The dustiest of the Dust Bowlers, Guthrie made his own life into a myth. He appointed himself spokesman for the poor and oppressed and through his songs turned their life into his own. This classic film is full of the songs of Woody Guthrie and contains rare footage of him performing. Guthrie's story is told in his own words and includes extended interviews with friends and family.

50th anniversary tribute to the Beano and Dandy comics. (Synopsis from BFI Film & TV Database)

Performance of Jonathan Miller's production for the Royal Court Theatre, of Ryszard Kapuscinski's "The Emperor", adapted for the stage and television by Michael Hastings and Jonathan Miller. Drama about the last days of Haile Selassie, Emperor of Ethiopia before his final overthrow.

A journey through southern Spain to meet the Andalucian gypsy families who keep alive the traditions of flamenco.

Profile of photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, to accompany the exhibition of his work at the National Portrait Gallery.

Documentary on the thoroughbred horse. Horses include Oh So Sharp, Dancing Brave, Adjal and Reference Point.

John Byrne, author of TUTTI FRUTTI, writes and directs his own film autobiography.

Tenth anniversary edition of the programme, featuring clips from some of the pro grammes of the last ten years.

Interview with Clint Eastwood about his career, his work as a director and the evolution of the Eastwood persona.

Documentary about the work of Michael Ondaatje, including a dramatisation of his ideas.