Orson Welles, a hugely successful polymath who forged a career in film, radio and theatre, was little known for his TV work.  In 1955, Associated-Rediffusion commissioned Welles to make his first television production, inviting him to write, direct and host a mini series.

Despite its grand title, the series was filmed entirely in Europe. Part home-movie, part cinematic essay, each episode takes the viewer on a fascinating journey to see the famous people and places in key cities across the continent. In Paris, we are introduced to famous artists such as Jean Cocteau; in Madrid, we attend a bullfight; and in Vienna, in an episode which was long believed lost, we are taken to the locations of The Third Man.

A unique and fascinating entry in the career of one of modern cinema’s most revered figures, Around the World with Orson Welles finally receives its world premiere Blu-ray release in this strictly limited, numbered edition from the BFI

Extras/Episodes:

All 6 original episodes: ‘Pays Basque I’ (1955, 26m); ‘Pays Basque II’ (1955, 26m); ‘The Third Man Returns to Vienna’ (1955, 26m); ‘St.-Germain-des-Prés’ (1955, 26m); ‘Chelsea Pensioners’ (1955, 26m); ‘Madrid Bullfight’ (1955, 26m)

Extra feature: The Dominici Affair (Christophe Cognet, 2000, 52m): documentary about the incomplete Around the World with Orson Welles ‘The Tragedy of Lurs’ episode

Cast and Crew:

Director: Orson Welles

Featuring: Jean Cocteau, Kenneth Tynan