The Winslow Boy (Blu-ray)

Part of the Vintage Classics collection

Adapted for the screen by Terence Rattigan (The Prince and The Showgirl, The Sound Barrier) from his own play, The Winslow Boy is the story of a father’s fight to clear his son’s name.

The Winslow Boy follows the tribulations of an Edwardian naval cadet Ronnie Winslow (Neil North), who is accused of the theft of a 5-shilling postal order, then expelled from his academy without any chance to defend himself. On returning home, his father Arthur (Cedric Hardwicke: Les Misérables, Around the World in 80 Days) becomes determined to prove his innocence after what he considers an unsatisfactory internal enquiry, and engages the services of famous barrister Sir Robert Morton (Robert Donat: The 39 Steps, Goodbye Mr Chips) to help him clear his son’s name. During his quest for justice, the case eventually reaches The House Of Commons, causing public outcry and a political furore. Also starring Margaret Leighton (The Go-Between, The Holly & the Ivy) and Basil Radford (Whisky Galore!, The Lady Vanishes) The Winslow Boy is a thoroughly British, searing drama about the quest for truth and the sacrifices that come with it.

Included in the special features is a new interview with cultural historian Matthew Sweet, who explores the film’s cultural impact and how it differs from the real case. Also included is an interview with author and critic Geoffrey Wansell, who offers a fascinating insight into The Winslow Boy – discussing the film versus the play, and Rattigan’s connection to the story; he also explores the reasons why the case garnered so much attention and interest from both the media and the public alike. Another brand-new special feature sees head archivist Gareth McGuffie delve into the vaults of the Post Office Museum, uncovering the fascinating original documentation from the 1908 case of George Arthur-Shee and the stolen postal order.