Zoë discusses working with David Bowie on Baal

22 July 2023 23:24

BBC Four is gearing up to broadcast the 1982 TV version of Baal, the bleak but compelling Brecht play about a destructive artist-poet, on Wednesday 26 July (11:05pm – 12:10am). It’s legendary late musician David Bowie in the title role, while Zoë plays Sophie, one of Baal’s unlucky lovers.

The BBC has released this fantastic photo of Sophie; I’d never seen it before.

As David Bowie News points out, Baal being broadcast is particularly exciting because it’s the first time the BBC has shown the programme – from the acclaimed director Alan Clarke – since it originally aired 41 years ago (though it was screened by the BFI during its 30th anniversary year and has been released on DVD and Blu-ray). Baal is part of a BBC Four season celebrating feature-length classic dramas.

Just before Baal begins, we’ll be treated to a short interview with Zoë. Zoë Wanamaker Remembers... Bowie and Baal can be seen from 10:55-11:05pm. I think I'm almost looking forward to this even more than seeing Baal again, as it's always fascinating to hear Zoe's insights about working on screen. I wonder what memories are most vivid when she looks back on working with Bowie in the 80s.

So, just to be clear, that's Zoe's interview first and Baal directly after.

Revisiting The Man Who Fell to Earth

And how about continuing the Zoe-plus-David-Bowie theme by watching or re-watching The Man Who Fell to Earth (2022)?

This fascinating, beautifully produced TV series, which is available from iTunes, builds on the 70s film of the same name starring Bowie. Zoë plays the enigmatic Watt (pictured above), who helps Faraday (played by Chiwetel Ejiofor), an alien on a mission to save his planet, with some vital research.

With thanks to Karoline for her help

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