PASSINGS : Roger A. Manvell, British Screenwriter, Broadcaster

Roger A. Manvell, 78, Boston University professor and former director of the British Film Academy. Manvell, a biographer, screenwriter and broadcaster, was born Oct. 10, 1909, in England, and produced more than 50 plays between 1929 and 1939. He worked for the Ministry of Information during World War II, specializing in film work. After working for the British Film Institute for two years as a researcher, he served 12 years as director of the British Film Academy. Manvell was also a regular broadcaster for the BBC. He joined Boston University’s College of Communications in 1975 and was named a professor in 1982. He is survived by his wife, Francoise. Monday in Boston.