Watch Dangerous Edge: A Life of Graham Greene

Dangerous Edge: A Life of Graham Greene is a 2013 documentary produced by PBS that explores the life and career of British author Graham Greene. Known for his thrilling and socially-conscious novels, Greene lived a fascinating and often controversial life that spanned much of the 20th century.

The film begins by providing an overview of Greene's childhood in Berkhamsted, England, where he grew up in a wealthy family and attended the prestigious Berkhamsted School. It then delves into his early adulthood, when he worked as a journalist and began to publish his first novels.

Throughout the film, we hear from a range of experts and scholars who offer their perspective on Greene's life and work. They discuss his themes of morality, politics, and the human condition, as well as his complex relationships with women, his struggles with depression, and his extensive travels around the world.

One of the key themes of the film is Greene's Catholic faith, which played a major role in both his personal life and his writing. As a devout Catholic, he grappled with issues of sin and redemption, and his novels often explored the tension between faith and doubt. The film also explores his relationship with the Catholic Church, which was complicated by his unconventional lifestyle and his controversial views on contraception.

The film also provides a thorough examination of Greene's literary output, including his most famous works such as The Power and the Glory, The End of the Affair, and Our Man in Havana. It discusses his unique writing style, which blended elements of thriller and adventure fiction with social commentary, giving his novels a distinctly political edge.

Throughout the film, we see archival footage of Greene himself, including interviews and readings of his work. We also hear from a range of notable figures who knew him personally, including actors John Le Carré and Richard Attenborough, and writers Pico Iyer and David Lodge. These personal insights give the film a human touch that helps to bring Greene's complex personality and creative vision to life.

The film also touches on the controversy that often surrounded Greene during his lifetime. He was famously criticized by some for his political views, which often leaned towards the left, and for his unorthodox personal life. He was married several times and had numerous affairs, and his writing often explored taboo subjects such as homosexuality and adultery. However, the film ultimately makes the case that Greene's willingness to push boundaries and explore uncomfortable topics is what made his work so powerful and enduring.

Overall, Dangerous Edge: A Life of Graham Greene is a well-crafted and informative documentary that offers a fascinating glimpse into the life and career of one of the 20th century's most important writers. Whether you are a long-time fan of Greene's work or simply interested in learning more about this complex and influential figure, this film is sure to educate and entertain.

Dangerous Edge: A Life of Graham Greene is a series that ran for 1 seasons (1 episodes) between March 29, 2013 and on PBS