Cohen film gets UK premiere at Green Man

Leonard Cohen documentary Bird On A Wire will get its UK premiere at next month's Green Man Festival, it has been announced.

The long-unreleased cut of the 1972 film will be introduced by the movie's director Tony Palmer and followed by a Q&A session with Palmer and producer Steven Machat.

Palmer said: "Maybe what is valuable about the film today is not only that it contains 17 of Cohen's greatest songs performed by him in his prime, it has a real feel for the rough and tumble and difficulties of life on the road.

"I know of few other films where the backstage confusion comes so vividly to life, with Cohen apparently taking no notice whatsoever of the camera. I doubt if today we would be allowed such access.

"The songs are haunting, unforgettably so. The poetry is extraordinary. But so is the man. Looking back after 38 years, my admiration for Cohen remains undiminished. The original film was made with love - I hope that quality once again shines through the restored film."

The premiere will take place on Thursday, August 19 at the festival, which runs until August 22 at Glanusk Park, Brecon Beacons, Wales.