The Actor. Sir Alec Guinness defines actors, and the London Theater Circuit. ABC Special 1968.

From the NY Times 55 years ago: "On March 15 1968 at 8:30 on ABC, Sir Alec Guinness will step on stage at London's Old Vic Theater, gaze about him and remark, "When the actor stands here, challenging the darkness, he offers himself as a kind of human sacrifice." Then Sir Alec, as host and narrator, will lead viewers through "The Actor," an hour-long television essay devoted to revealing "the special characteristics of this special race."" A cerebral exploration of English Theater, and theater in general. An engrossing look at what makes an actor want to be an actor. Prominent actors, directors of the stage take you on a journey to discover this "special race". Alan Brien, Peter Brook, Peter Bull, Tyrone Guthrie, Joan Littlewood, Harold Pinter, Joan Plowright, Nicol Williamson, and Donald Wolfit explain the phenomena. Joan Plowright discusses a lack of diverse and empowering roles for women in theater. Nicol Williamson expresses a rebellious and non-conformist attitude towards acting and awards. There are so many interesting and prominent people in this film...you have to watch. The Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, Donald Wolfit's Shakespearean company, The Theater Royale in the East end of London are prominent in the discussion. And lots more. This is a full network print with commercial as aired in 1968. An added bonus is B.F. Goodrich launched the Radial Age ad campaign with 50-foot-tall woman in the commercials. So enjoy "Miss Radial Age", 50ft tall in a miniskirt, wandering the countryside, helping motorists. Transferred from 16mm b-w film.