BBC Radio 4

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

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When Al Jolson sang for his 'mammy' in 1927, a new age of dreaming and illusion was born.

Author and film critic David Thomson explores how cinema has changed him - and us: 1927, Al Jolson and ‘Mammy’.  From 2011.

The dream of a universal language of film, even one that took place in silence with titles, died as Al Jolson sang for his 'mammy' in The Jazz Singer (1927). 

A new age of dreaming and illusion was upon us and it had many voices.

Author David Thomson takes a highly personal journey through the meaning of film and its impact on us. 

Producer: Mark Burman.

First broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in January 2011.

BBC Radio 4 Extra

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama. With recent favourites from BBC Radio 4.

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David Thomson takes a personal journey through how cinema has changed us

David Thomson, author and film critic, takes a personal journey through how cinema has changed both him and us

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