Upcoming Network Blu-ray Releases
HomeUpcoming Network Blu-ray Releases
Posted December 10, 2020 05:54 PM by Webmaster
British label Network has announced a large batch of new catalog titles to be released on Blu-ray between January and February, 2021. Amongst them are: State Secret a.k.a. The Great Manhunt (1950), The Man Upstairs (1958), The Story of Gilbert and Sullivan (1953), and Kidnapped (1971).
Please note that final technical specs and supplemental features for most titles have not yet been revealed.
State Secret a.k.a. The Great Manhunt
Synopsis: Hollywood star Douglas Fairbanks Jr gives a lively performance as a man on the run in this dramatic thriller from British film legends Frank Launder and Sidney Gilliat. Co-starring Glynis Johns and featuring cinematography from Oscar-winning Robert Krasker, State Secret is presented here as a brand-new High Definition transfer from original film elements in its original theatrical aspect ratio.
The East European state of Vosnia appears to outsiders as a civilized and beautiful country but is, in truth, a tightly controlled dictatorship. When a visiting American surgeon is duped into becoming dangerously involved in Vosnian power politics he goes on the run - a wanted man, his life is forfeit if he's captured!
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 22.
The Story of Gilbert and Sullivan
Synopsis: Robert Morley and Maurice Evans star as the celebrated Gilbert and Sullivan in this sumptuous costume drama from British film legends Frank Launder and Sidney Gilliat. Co-starring Peter Finch and Eileen Herlie as the D'Oyly Cartes, The Story of Gilbert and Sullivan features spectacular imagery from BAFTA-winning cinematographer Christopher Challis, lavish design by Oscar-winners Hein Heckroth and Vincent Korda and a memorable soundtrack courtesy of the London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sir Malcolm Sargent. It is featured here as a High Definition transfer from original film elements in its original theatrical aspect ratio.
Amid accusations of talent-wasting, composer Arthur Sullivan joins forces with dramatist W.S. Gilbert and impresario Richard D'Oyly Carte in a partnership to create what ultimately became some of the most innovative and successful music ever created.
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 22.
The High Command
Synopsis: Lionel Atwill, Lucie Mannheim and James Mason (in an early breakout role) star in this memorable Colonial tale of honor and betrayal between the wars. Oscar-nominated Thorold Dickinson's feature debut as a solo director, The High Command is presented here as a High Definition remaster from original film elements in its as-exhibited aspect ratio.
West Africa, 1937. When a medical officer attached to a military garrison is found murdered, a fellow officer is suspected. The subsequent court martial rakes up the past, uncovering secrets best left dead and buried...
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 15.
It's in the Air
Synopsis: One of the successful run of pre-war Ealing comedies that secured George Formby's enduring popularity with the British public, It's in the Air finds everyone's favorite gawp fulfilling his dream of joining the RAF – though, of course, he does it the hard way! Partly filmed at the famous London Air Park, it co-stars Polly Ward, Jack Hobbs, Garry Marsh and Hal Gordon and is presented here as a brand-new High Definition transfer from original film elements in its original theatrical aspect ratio.
Hapless George's dreams of flying are continually thwarted, and when he's even rejected for a job as an Air Raid Warden he sneakily tries on his brother-in-law's RAF dispatch rider uniform. Finding an urgent communique in its pockets he decides to deliver it himself... and ends up with his head in the clouds – though not in the way he'd expected!
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 15.
Johnny Frenchman
Synopsis: Renowned farceur Tom Walls stars alongside French cinematic icon Francoise Rosay in this heart-warming comedy-drama from Ealing Films. Made as World War Two was coming to an end but set during its opening months, Johnny Frenchman is featured here as a brand-new High Definition transfer from original film elements in its as-exhibited theatrical aspect ratio.
There exists an age-old rivalry between the Cornish and Breton fisherfolk, but harbourmaster Nat Pomeroy holds a particular grudge... not just for the Bretons' incessant poaching, but for the harbor dues he loses in the process!
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 8.
Sailors Three a.k.a. Three Cockeyed Sailors
Synopsis: A broad naval comedy that kept cinemagoers highly entertained during the early years of World War Two, Sailors Three was Walter Forde's last film for Ealing and Tommy Trinder's first. Co-starring Claude Hulbert and Michael Wilding, this memorable mix of music hall and propaganda is presented here as a brand-new High Definition remaster from original film elements in its original fullscreen aspect ratio.
On shore leave from HMS Ferocious at a neutral South American port, three sailors have one shandy too many before re-boarding their ship. Unfortunately it's not their ship and they wake up to find they've drunkenly boarded the German pocket battleship Ludendorf!
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 8.
Kidnapped
Synopsis: Based on the novels by Robert Louis Stevenson and directed by Oscar-winning Delbert Mann, this epic, star-studded adventure sees Michael Caine in the role of a Jacobite rebel who befriends an orphan fleeing a life of slavery. A strong drama with a moving score from Roy Budd (and end theme sung by folk legend Mary Hopkin), Kidnapped co-stars Jack Hawkins, Donald Pleasence, Trevor Howard and Gordon Jackson. It is featured here as a brand-new High Definition restoration from original film elements in its as-exhibited aspect ratio.
1746: as defeated Jacobite rebels flee Government forces in the aftermath of the battle at Culloden, eighteen-year-old orphan David Balfour's attempt to claim his inheritance results in his incarceration on a slaver ship heading for the West Indies. Luckily for David the ship's captain runs afoul of Alan Breck Stewart, and both Alan and David make their bloody escape.
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 1.
The Show Goes On
Synopsis: Beloved by the British public for her string of hit pre-war films, Gracie Fields' Lancastrian earthiness, impish humor and memorable songs have endeared her to many generations of fans. The Show Goes On sees Gracie starring opposite Owen Nares and John Stuart in this emotional, semi-autobiographical musical romance. It is presented here as a brand-new High Definition remaster from original film elements in its original theatrical aspect ratio.
Sally Lee, an erstwhile mill girl who fancies her chances on stage, tries her luck in London but ends up busking. When she's spotted by Martin Fraser, a composer of sentimental songs, her career takes an unexpected turn!
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 1.
The Man Upstairs
Synopsis: Richard Attenborough gives a compelling performance in this gripping psychological drama as a hysteric approaching the limits of his sanity! Also featuring Donald Houston, Kenneth Griffith, Bernard Lee and Alfred Burke, The Man Upstairs is featured here as a brand-new High Definition transfer from original film elements in its as-exhibited aspect ratio.
Insomniac Peter Watson lives in a state of perpetual crisis. Lodging in a run-down boarding house and becoming ever more unpredictable, he is tormented by guilt over his part in an accident that claimed the life of his fiancee's brother. When he hits out at another tenant the police get involved, and Watson finds himself trapped in an escalating drama in which the actions of those around him may help him... or harm him.
STREET DATE: JANUARY 25.
Please Turn Over
Synopsis: A precocious teenage daughter writes a steamy bestseller featuring fictionalised versions of her family and friends, turning their quiet suburban life upside down in the process when their neighbours believe that the book's contents are true!
Ted Ray, Jean Kent, Leslie Phillips and Joan Sims star in this hilarious comedy from the quintessential Carry On team of writer Norman Hudis, producer Peter Rogers and Director Gerald Thomas. Based on the hit West End comedy Book of the Month, Please Turn Over is featured here as a High Definition remaster from original film elements in its theatrically exhibited aspect ratio.
STREET DATE: JANUARY 18.
Please note that final technical specs and supplemental features for most titles have not yet been revealed.
State Secret a.k.a. The Great Manhunt
Synopsis: Hollywood star Douglas Fairbanks Jr gives a lively performance as a man on the run in this dramatic thriller from British film legends Frank Launder and Sidney Gilliat. Co-starring Glynis Johns and featuring cinematography from Oscar-winning Robert Krasker, State Secret is presented here as a brand-new High Definition transfer from original film elements in its original theatrical aspect ratio.
The East European state of Vosnia appears to outsiders as a civilized and beautiful country but is, in truth, a tightly controlled dictatorship. When a visiting American surgeon is duped into becoming dangerously involved in Vosnian power politics he goes on the run - a wanted man, his life is forfeit if he's captured!
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 22.
The Story of Gilbert and Sullivan
Synopsis: Robert Morley and Maurice Evans star as the celebrated Gilbert and Sullivan in this sumptuous costume drama from British film legends Frank Launder and Sidney Gilliat. Co-starring Peter Finch and Eileen Herlie as the D'Oyly Cartes, The Story of Gilbert and Sullivan features spectacular imagery from BAFTA-winning cinematographer Christopher Challis, lavish design by Oscar-winners Hein Heckroth and Vincent Korda and a memorable soundtrack courtesy of the London Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Sir Malcolm Sargent. It is featured here as a High Definition transfer from original film elements in its original theatrical aspect ratio.
Amid accusations of talent-wasting, composer Arthur Sullivan joins forces with dramatist W.S. Gilbert and impresario Richard D'Oyly Carte in a partnership to create what ultimately became some of the most innovative and successful music ever created.
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 22.
The High Command
Synopsis: Lionel Atwill, Lucie Mannheim and James Mason (in an early breakout role) star in this memorable Colonial tale of honor and betrayal between the wars. Oscar-nominated Thorold Dickinson's feature debut as a solo director, The High Command is presented here as a High Definition remaster from original film elements in its as-exhibited aspect ratio.
West Africa, 1937. When a medical officer attached to a military garrison is found murdered, a fellow officer is suspected. The subsequent court martial rakes up the past, uncovering secrets best left dead and buried...
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 15.
It's in the Air
Synopsis: One of the successful run of pre-war Ealing comedies that secured George Formby's enduring popularity with the British public, It's in the Air finds everyone's favorite gawp fulfilling his dream of joining the RAF – though, of course, he does it the hard way! Partly filmed at the famous London Air Park, it co-stars Polly Ward, Jack Hobbs, Garry Marsh and Hal Gordon and is presented here as a brand-new High Definition transfer from original film elements in its original theatrical aspect ratio.
Hapless George's dreams of flying are continually thwarted, and when he's even rejected for a job as an Air Raid Warden he sneakily tries on his brother-in-law's RAF dispatch rider uniform. Finding an urgent communique in its pockets he decides to deliver it himself... and ends up with his head in the clouds – though not in the way he'd expected!
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 15.
Johnny Frenchman
Synopsis: Renowned farceur Tom Walls stars alongside French cinematic icon Francoise Rosay in this heart-warming comedy-drama from Ealing Films. Made as World War Two was coming to an end but set during its opening months, Johnny Frenchman is featured here as a brand-new High Definition transfer from original film elements in its as-exhibited theatrical aspect ratio.
There exists an age-old rivalry between the Cornish and Breton fisherfolk, but harbourmaster Nat Pomeroy holds a particular grudge... not just for the Bretons' incessant poaching, but for the harbor dues he loses in the process!
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 8.
Sailors Three a.k.a. Three Cockeyed Sailors
Synopsis: A broad naval comedy that kept cinemagoers highly entertained during the early years of World War Two, Sailors Three was Walter Forde's last film for Ealing and Tommy Trinder's first. Co-starring Claude Hulbert and Michael Wilding, this memorable mix of music hall and propaganda is presented here as a brand-new High Definition remaster from original film elements in its original fullscreen aspect ratio.
On shore leave from HMS Ferocious at a neutral South American port, three sailors have one shandy too many before re-boarding their ship. Unfortunately it's not their ship and they wake up to find they've drunkenly boarded the German pocket battleship Ludendorf!
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 8.
Kidnapped
Synopsis: Based on the novels by Robert Louis Stevenson and directed by Oscar-winning Delbert Mann, this epic, star-studded adventure sees Michael Caine in the role of a Jacobite rebel who befriends an orphan fleeing a life of slavery. A strong drama with a moving score from Roy Budd (and end theme sung by folk legend Mary Hopkin), Kidnapped co-stars Jack Hawkins, Donald Pleasence, Trevor Howard and Gordon Jackson. It is featured here as a brand-new High Definition restoration from original film elements in its as-exhibited aspect ratio.
1746: as defeated Jacobite rebels flee Government forces in the aftermath of the battle at Culloden, eighteen-year-old orphan David Balfour's attempt to claim his inheritance results in his incarceration on a slaver ship heading for the West Indies. Luckily for David the ship's captain runs afoul of Alan Breck Stewart, and both Alan and David make their bloody escape.
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 1.
The Show Goes On
Synopsis: Beloved by the British public for her string of hit pre-war films, Gracie Fields' Lancastrian earthiness, impish humor and memorable songs have endeared her to many generations of fans. The Show Goes On sees Gracie starring opposite Owen Nares and John Stuart in this emotional, semi-autobiographical musical romance. It is presented here as a brand-new High Definition remaster from original film elements in its original theatrical aspect ratio.
Sally Lee, an erstwhile mill girl who fancies her chances on stage, tries her luck in London but ends up busking. When she's spotted by Martin Fraser, a composer of sentimental songs, her career takes an unexpected turn!
STREET DATE: FEBRUARY 1.
The Man Upstairs
Synopsis: Richard Attenborough gives a compelling performance in this gripping psychological drama as a hysteric approaching the limits of his sanity! Also featuring Donald Houston, Kenneth Griffith, Bernard Lee and Alfred Burke, The Man Upstairs is featured here as a brand-new High Definition transfer from original film elements in its as-exhibited aspect ratio.
Insomniac Peter Watson lives in a state of perpetual crisis. Lodging in a run-down boarding house and becoming ever more unpredictable, he is tormented by guilt over his part in an accident that claimed the life of his fiancee's brother. When he hits out at another tenant the police get involved, and Watson finds himself trapped in an escalating drama in which the actions of those around him may help him... or harm him.
STREET DATE: JANUARY 25.
Please Turn Over
Synopsis: A precocious teenage daughter writes a steamy bestseller featuring fictionalised versions of her family and friends, turning their quiet suburban life upside down in the process when their neighbours believe that the book's contents are true!
Ted Ray, Jean Kent, Leslie Phillips and Joan Sims star in this hilarious comedy from the quintessential Carry On team of writer Norman Hudis, producer Peter Rogers and Director Gerald Thomas. Based on the hit West End comedy Book of the Month, Please Turn Over is featured here as a High Definition remaster from original film elements in its theatrically exhibited aspect ratio.
STREET DATE: JANUARY 18.
