Tommy Director Dies

Russell was responsible for some of the most important British films ever made, including the controversial Women In Love and The Devils. 

In 1975 he took on the tough job of bringing The Who's rock opera to life on the big screen, and boldly cast Roger Daltrey as his leading man. The film also featured a number of other musicians and rock stars in its cast and actress Ann-Margret received an Oscar nomination for her role as Tommy's mother.

Russell worked again with Roger Daltrey on his next film, Lisztomania, which was released in the same year as Tommy and featured a soundtrack by Rick Wakeman (Rick also appeared in the film as Norse god Thor).

Russell passed away in hospital in his sleep aged 84 yesterday.

(BBC)