Franc Roddam
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Francis George Roddam (born April 29, 1946, Norton, Stockton-on-Tees) is an English film director and documentary maker.
He is best known for the film Quadrophenia and the early reality television series The Family. In the mid 1960s, Roddam worked in advertising as a copy writer; the hero of Quadrophenia also works for an advertising firm. He attended the London Film School, making his first short film The Birthday in 1969. It was nominated for a BAFTA award, leading to The Family (1974) and, in 1976, a memorable documentary in the BBC's Inside Story strand about a 11-year-old arsonist called "Mini".
In 1977 he made his name by producing and directing a controversial, searing docu-drama called Dummy, which was watched by 14 million viewers. It told the sad, sordid story of Sandra, a deaf and mute girl who descended into prostitution and degradation on the streets of Bradford. She was portrayed by Geraldine James in a performance that won her the Prix Italia and established her reputation as a talented actress.
Roddam directed Quadrophenia in 1979, loosely based on The Who's 1973 album of the same name. It told the story of Jimmy, a teenager who was involved in the early 1960s mod phenomenon. There was a burgeoning mod revival at the time, partially inspired by the film. The film has developed a cult status, but unlike his near contemporaries Ridley Scott and Alan Parker, Roddam did not establish himself in the United States. His first Hollywood film The Bride was a commercial flop, and his work since has been sporadic. Roddam is credited with creating the series Auf Wiedersehen, Pet reflecting his roots in North East England, and devising the format for the television game show Masterchef.
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