Mary, Queen of Scots (Blu-ray)

The historical rivalry between two of Britain’s most fascinating monarchs is brought brilliantly to life in this thrilling period drama.

When the Catholic Mary, Queen of Scots (Vanessa Redgrave) returns to her homeland to claim her throne, the court of her cousin, the Protestant Elizabeth I (Glenda Jackson) in neighbouring England, is thrown into turmoil, as the question of succession becomes an ever-pressing concern to the ‘Virgin Queen’. Political machinations and intrigue abound as the competing camps jostle for dominance, with the threat of the executioner’s axe looming large.

Stunning performances by Vanessa Redgrave and Glenda Jackson are supported by a stellar ensemble cast including Trevor Howard, Ian Holm and Timothy Dalton.

• Presented in High Definition
• Audio commentary by film historian and critic Sergio Mims (2020)
• Isolated John Barry score with commentary from film historians Nick Redman and Jon Burlingame
• Riding High (2022, 6 mins): actor Frances White recalls a few of her most memorable experiences on location
• The Guardian Lecture: Glenda Jackson (1982, 77 mins, audio only): the actor interviewed at the National Film Theatre
• Now and Then: Vanessa Redgrave (1968, 30 mins): the actor is interviewed by Bernard Braden for his never broadcast series
• Promotional trailer (1971, 4 mins)
• Image gallery
• Newly created audio description track
• Newly commissioned reversible sleeve art by artist David Downton
• ***FIRST PRESSING ONLY*** Illustrated booklet with a new essay by Ellen Cheshire and selected biographies by John Oliver

Please note that the extra 'overture and musical intermission' originally advertised on this release has not been included on the final product. The HD master accessible to us did not include these but the information was not corrected on the sleeve. We apologise for any disappointment and/or confusion caused.