Noted British filmmaker, Twemlow's illustrious career in the entertainment industry commenced as a daredevil stuntman, an occupation that served as a springboard to catapult him into the spotlight, starring in a succession of low-budget action films, predominantly shot on videotape, which were produced, coordinated, and written by Twemlow himself, under various pseudonyms, showcasing his multifaceted talents.
Person Biography:
Twemlow, a Manchester-based filmmaker, made his debut in the film industry as a stuntman, which eventually led him to take the lead role in his first film, 1983's G.B.H. This project was a labor of love, where Twemlow not only acted as the lead but also wore multiple hats, including producer, stunt coordinator, and composer, all under different pseudonyms.
The cinematic production, which showcases Twemlow in the complex and nuanced role of Steve Donovan, also affectionately known as "The Mancunian", revolves around the narrative of a protagonist who is inexorably pulled back into the tumultuous realm of Manchester's nightclub scene, an environment that Twemlow has intimate familiarity with.
This turbulent world is eerily reminiscent of his own life, as evidenced by his autobiography, "Tuxedo Warrior: Tales of a Mancunian Bouncer", which was published concurrently with the film's video release.
Anthony Schaeffer and Jerry Harris deliver impressive performances in this cinematic endeavour, yet it's worth noting that the majority of the cast comprised of Twemlow's acquaintances from the local gym and fellow stunt professionals, lending a sense of authenticity to the project.
Throughout the film, viewers will notice a plethora of nods to iconic motion pictures, including the classic Western duo Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. Furthermore, the movie boasts an original soundtrack, meticulously crafted by Twemlow himself under the pseudonym "John Agar", adding an extra layer of depth and complexity to the overall viewing experience.
G.B.H., a landmark film, served as the catalyst for Twemlow's distinctive cinematic style, which seamlessly integrates captivating stunt sequences, a pronounced focus on Manchester's urban landscape and its inhabitants, and a liberal dose of Northern wit and humor. The film's widespread acclaim subsequently spawned a prolific output of approximately 13 Twemlow productions throughout the 1980s and 1990s, with the majority of these being directed by the accomplished filmmaker, David Kent-Watson.
Notable among Twemlow's filmography are several horror-themed productions, one of which being the 1988 release "The Eye of Satan". Additionally, the director's work on the sequel to the 1985 film "G.B.H.", titled "Lethal Impact", is also noteworthy. This sequel, which was shot on location in Malta, Liverpool, and Manchester, showcases Twemlow's ability to craft compelling narratives across diverse settings.
In addition to his work in film, Twemlow was also a prolific horror novelist. He penned several paperbacks, including "The Beast of Kane" and "The Pike". The latter, a novel intended to be adapted into a film, was set to star the renowned actress Joan Collins. Although the project ultimately failed to come to fruition, it serves as a testament to Twemlow's versatility and creative range as a writer.
It is with a sense of profound melancholy that we acknowledge the passing of the esteemed film director and pulp fiction author, Harry Alan Twemlow, who departed this mortal coil in the year 1993.
