Ken Russell tried several professions before choosing to become a filmdirector; he was a still photographer and a dancer and he even servedin the Army, but film was his destiny. He began by making severalshort films which paved the way for his brilliant television films of the1960s that are acclaimed for his attention to detail and opulent visuals.His third feature filmWomen in Love (1969) was a triumph that made him known internationally.In the 1970s, his talent truly blossomed. Over the next two decades hewould direct a succession of remarkable films, most containing thetrademark flamboyance that critics generally dismiss but many findengrossing. He will forever be remembered as a controversial, visionaryartist with something of a third eye for oddball dramas with captivatingimages and themes.