Peter Watkins, the director of the controversial BBC drama 'The War Game' which was banned from broadcast for over 20 years, has died at the age of 90. The film, a stark portrayal of a nuclear attack on Britain, was deemed too disturbing for television audiences when it was completed in 1965.
Watkins' film employed a documentary style to depict the aftermath of a nuclear strike on Kent, including scenes of mass casualties and societal collapse. The BBC initially shelved the film, fearing it would cause public panic and undermine the government's civil defense policies. It was eventually shown on television in 1985.
Despite the controversy, 'The War Game' won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 1966. Watkins later directed other notable works including 'Culloden' and 'Edvard Munch', but his career was marked by ongoing conflicts with broadcasters over his uncompromising style.
Watkins died at his home in Sweden, where he had lived for many years. His family confirmed his death but did not provide further details. Tributes have been paid to his pioneering approach to filmmaking and his commitment to challenging audiences with difficult subjects.
