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My professional contribution to this film


Suffice to say my name is Michael, preferring to withold my family name, the reason for which will become clear later in these words of personal memories!
I was the 2nd asst (or was it 3rd) director on this extraordinary production. I clearly recall with
total humility what a pleasure and a priviledge it was to work with Mr Lester, by which time I had seen his Beatles production, HELP which released in 1965. Bed Sit was released as I recall 1969?
I can personally reveal my humble pride in receiving the lightening heat of a tongue lashing from Spike, who left my youthful pride in shards of shattered cut glass. Mr Lester asked me to go to Spikes caravan, which was nothing if not absolutely modestly appointed, with a bed, small table and a wooden chair. On a bright summer afternoon, he was resting on the bed with the door open. I (green as they come) saw him on the bed, eyes wide open, " Spike, Dick asked me to tell you he is ready for you please" Expletives galore and I was duly annointed with all the fruityness his violent military career had taught. The following day I had a nasty bout of flu, carrying on working regardless. Mr Lester generously gave me one of his medicines to clear up my demise, which worked rapidly. I was told that it was potentially very dangerous and never to use meds prescribed for others. I loved working on this film and somewhere towards the end there is a shot of someone in a chicken pox and german measles factory producing bombs for the worrying future when mankind begins his and her return to the world, as shown with Rita Tushingham's monster birth.
Dick very generously offered me £5, probably worth $5 in those good old days? Yes, that is my big secret. Against ACTT union rules, I appeared on camera in an 'acting roll'! That could have resulted in suspension, even temporarily I could not afford that, as the extra mazuma would only last about 10 days! So, please spare a thought for an impoverished young lad in 1969 with his hooded blue jacket covering his face to protect his good name for a fascinating future as a film,
tv and commecial assistant director, invariably uncredited, even in later years, when I eventually moved to the boom ops and sound department. Full name witheld. Old habits die slowly or never?

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Great contribution, thanks jefadlm-1-full-name-withheld.

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Brilliant... thanks!

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