The BBC presents a rare glimpse into the life and work of one of Britain's best-loved writers. With exclusive access to the key moments of his year, including final rehearsals of his play The Habit of Art, the programme gains unique insight into someone who can truly be described as a national treasure - a title Alan Bennett would no doubt hate. Through candid interviews, classic archive footage, new work and personal testimony, this documentary explores the many sides, both public and private, of the reluctant elder statesman of English culture.