Orson Welles has long been the subject of many cinephiles' fascination.
Yet, while the director’s movies – Citizen Kane, F for Fake, A Touch of Evil, etc – have been celebrated time and time again, little has been made of Welles’ drawings.
Before turning to film, Welles was an aspiring painter, once embarking on a painting and sketching tour of Ireland (during which the young man first appeared on stage professionally). And although he would pursue a career as a filmmaker, radio producer, actor, theatre director, and wine seller, Welles remained an avid painter.
Most of the sketches and painting by the iconic artist have only been seen by friends and family – until now. Award-winning director Mark Cousins was granted access to the treasure-trove of work and made a documentary on the discoveries.
Titled The Eyes of Orson Welles, the film debuted to rave reviews at Cannes Film Festival, and The Independent can exclusively reveal the first trailer. Watch above.
Cousins directs and narrates the film, which also features appearances from Beatrice Welles, the daughter of Orson.
The Eyes of Orson Welles debuts in UK cinemas 17 August. From 2 August until 23 September the public will also be able to see Welles’s drawings and sketches for the first time in an exclusive exhibition at Summerhall in Edinburgh.
