Turned Towards The Sun

Turned Towards The Sun, released in 2012, is a compelling documentary film that showcases the extraordinary life journey of British commando, poet, and journalist Micky Burn. Directed by Greg Olliver, the film takes the audience on an introspective journey through historical times, chronicling Burn's struggle, defiance, and rebellion against the challenging scenarios he encountered.

The film's narrative strongly hinges on Micky Burn, who was connected to some of the most significant events of the 20th century. It paints a vivid picture of a life interwoven with critical historical moments and glittered with the company of some of the most influential figures of the era.

Turned Towards The Sun features in-depth interviews with Burn himself before his demise in 2010, offering a firsthand account of a lifetime marked with tumultuous and adventurous events. The filmmakers also used a substantial amount of archival footage, personal photographs, excerpts from Burn's written records, and interviews with his contemporaries to piece together this individual's intriguing life journey.

Micky Burn was an enigmatic figure whose life was as enthralling as it was paradoxical. Born into privilege and wealth, he was an intellectual who grappled with his societal expectations and his personal ideologies. He was a poet, journalist, and an anarchist who later transformed into a British war hero. Burn's life projected the social dynamics of pre-war upper-class British society when rebellion against conformity defined the youth of that era.

One of the major aspects highlighted in Turned Towards The Sun is Burn's participation in Operation Chariot during World War II, widely regarded as the most audacious raid in the annals of the British Special Operations Executive. His involvement in this mission and subsequent capture by the Germans set the stage for the most dramatic chapters of his life, which had an indelible impact on his later years.

The documentary delves deep into his exploits during his time as a prisoner of war, interspersed with personal anecdotes and reflections from Burn. It explores the transformation of his rebellious nature, ultimately leading him to become an acclaimed journalist, leading to a renowned career marked by his brilliant writing and reporting.

One of the key elements of the film is the exploration of Burn's personal life, particularly his relationships. It sheds light on his complex and entangled relationships, most notably a passionate affair with a member of the aristocracy that held significant historical implications and a failed marriage that resulted in the birth of his only son. The film offers a nuanced perspective on how these relationships influenced his personal and professional life and contributed to the man he became.

Turned Towards The Sun also provides glimpses into Burn's association with other prominent figures of the time, including famed authors such as Evelyn Waugh and George Orwell, who significantly influenced his writing career. Additionally, his personal encounters with wartime loyalty, heightened nationalism, and his inherent pacifist beliefs are explored in depth.

Greg Olliver's deft storytelling in Turned Towards The Sun presents a layered narrative structure that complements the film's premise. The movie is skilfully edited to smoothly transition between different periods in Burn's life, alternating between tales of high adventure, deep introspection, romance, and profound personal and professional challenges. Coupled with a haunting musical score, the film manages to maintain a balance between historical drama and personal narrative.

In summary, Turned Towards The Sun is a deeply engaging documentary that invites viewers to reflect on the complex dynamics between history and individual narratives of those living through it. It takes viewers on a thought-provoking journey through the life of a fascinating individual whose story spans a critical period of 20th-century history. It is much more than a history lesson; it's an exploration of identity, ideology, and integrity. The film is sure to appeal to a wide range of audiences, particularly those interested in biographical documentaries.