Benn Wolfe Levy, a multifaceted individual, donned numerous hats throughout his remarkable life, deftly juggling the roles of Labour Party Member of Parliament, accomplished playwright, and skilled screenwriter.
Born on March 7, 1900, Levy's academic journey was marked by attendance at the prestigious Repton School, where he honed his intellectual prowess. Subsequently, he pursued higher education at University College, Oxford, solidifying his impressive academic credentials.
In addition to his academic achievements, Levy's remarkable life was also punctuated by his military service in both World Wars. With unwavering dedication, he donned the uniform, serving with distinction and earning recognition for his bravery and commitment.
Levy's multifaceted nature, marked by his diverse pursuits, was a testament to his boundless energy, creativity, and adaptability.
Notable playwright and screenwriter, Levy, initially garnered recognition for his exceptional talent in the world of playwriting, prior to pursuing a career in politics. One of his most acclaimed screenplays was co-written with R. C. Sherriff for James Whale's eerie and unsettling horror film, The Old Dark House, released in 1932. This cinematic masterpiece was based on J. B. Priestley's novel, Benighted, published in 1927. Prior to this notable achievement, Levy had already made a significant contribution to the film industry as the dialogue writer for Alfred Hitchcock's groundbreaking Blackmail, a pioneering British sound film released in 1929.
Levy's inaugural foray into the realm of politics was precipitated by his successful candidacy in the 1945 general election, wherein he secured a seat in the House of Commons, specifically representing the Eton and Slough constituency. This milestone marked the beginning of a distinguished parliamentary career, which would eventually come to a close with his decision to step down at the 1950 general election, leaving behind a lasting legacy of activism and commitment to the Labour Party.
Throughout his political tenure, Levy was distinguished by his strong affinity for left-leaning ideologies and his active involvement with the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, a testament to his unwavering dedication to promoting peaceful coexistence and reducing the threat of nuclear warfare.
Furthermore, Levy's sympathies towards the Zionist movement, which aimed to establish a Jewish homeland in Palestine and Israel, led him to vocally oppose the policies of Foreign Secretary Ernest Bevin, who was perceived as being hostile towards the Zionist cause. This stance reflected Levy's deep-seated commitment to the principles of justice and equality, as well as his unwavering support for the rights of the Jewish people.
Levy, a prominent figure in the British political scene, dedicated a significant portion of his tenure as a Member of Parliament to a most noble endeavor: the abolition of theatrical censorship in the United Kingdom. Alas, despite his unwavering dedication and tireless efforts, this initiative ultimately fell short of achieving its desired outcome.
As the years went by, Levy's passion for the arts and his commitment to the cause of free expression only continued to grow. Towards the latter stages of his life, he found himself at the forefront of a most significant report, one that boldly opposed the arguments presented by the esteemed Lord Longford, a renowned advocate for stricter controls on pornography and other forms of explicit content.
Levy's personal life was characterized by a prolonged and deeply satisfying union with American-born actress Constance Cummings, a partnership that endured for over four decades, replete with moments of joy, shared experiences, and mutual support. This enduring marriage, marked by its stability and harmony, was further enriched by the arrival of two children, a daughter and a son, who brought additional depth and meaning to their lives. Throughout their relationship, Levy and Cummings navigated the intricate and often challenging landscape of life, politics, and art, their bond growing stronger with each passing year as they faced the ups and downs of existence together.
