British screenwriter and film director Terence Davies dies at 77

The creator of the Cannes-awarded movie "Distant Voices, Still Lives," Terence Davies, passed away at the age of 77.

Terence Davies often incorporated autobiographical elements into his work. The Briton came from a working-class background, having been raised in a poor, large family with an abusive father. A Catholic school added to his harsh upbringing. His first film, "Children," made in 1976, touches on this. "I make films to come to terms with my family history," the director said.

He gained wide recognition thanks to the movie "Distant Voices, Still Lives" from 1988, which won the International Federation of Film Critics (FIPRESCI) award at the Cannes festival. The same picture was also appreciated in Locarno and Toronto.

Some of Davies' louder productions also included "The Long Day Closes", "The Deep Blue Sea" with Rachel Weisz and Tom Hiddleston, "A Quiet Passion" with Cynthia Nixon, and "The House of Mirth" with Gillian Anderson and Laura Linney.

As reported by the British media, the director passed away after a short illness at his home. He was 77 years old.