The Wall Movie

Gerald Scarfe’s unique form of art provided animations for segments of the In The Flesh tour as well as knocking the Hipgnosis design team off the front cover of The Wall album. With Roger Waters intent on taking the adventures of Pink to the screen he and the artist put together a 40-page illustrated storyboard – some of which were signed – to attract potential financial backers. After a false start, Alan Parker took up the reins of director and swiftly weaned Waters away from playing Pink himself, in favour of charismatic Boomtown Rats’ lead singer Bob Geldof. Pointedly, Parker insisted Waters take a six-week ‘holiday’ during filming so that the director would not have to contend with artistic interference. Waters was present during the editing process where the live action, Scarfe’s arresting animation and music were blended together – when they were not arguing – into a stunning realization of Waters’ original idea.

July

Pink Floyd The Wall Premiere

Pink Floyd The Wall had its world premiere at the prestigious Empire Theatre in London’s Leicester Square on 14 July 1982. The three main creative sparks behind it, Waters, Parker and Scarfe, were all in attendance as were Nick Mason and Dave Gilmour. Bob Geldof was also there to witness his wholehearted performance, as was actor Bob Hoskins who played the juicy role of his manager. Reviews were favourable and retrospect reveals The Wall as the first feature-length MTV video.

Personalities | Introducing Pink Floyd
Personalities | Pink Floyd | The Waters-Led Era (1983) | Key Events