Reviewed By Jason LockardThere have been many films made about war, whether it be World War I, World War 2, Korean War ect. One of the latest releases from VCI Entertainment is "King & Country". This film was a British production and film fans can own this classic on DVD.
Set in World War I, the film follows English army private Arthur Hamp (Tom Courtenay). He is accused of deserting his company while on the battlefield. Defended by the unsympathetic lawyer Captain Hargreaves (Dirk Bogarde).
Facing the firing squad if found guilty, at the trial Hamp begins to unfold the terrible events of the war. And the horrible conditions the men had to deal with. Will Hamp be found guilty or will Hargreaves help him get his freedom? You'll have to watch the film to find out.
The film was based on the play Hamp by John Wilson and novel by James Lansdale Hodson and adapted for the screen by British screenwriter Evan Jones. The dialogue in this drama is stellar. It was produced and directed by Joseph Losey.
This was my first time seeing this film and I have to say the acting in this film is great. Each person puts everything they have into their role. And Tom Courtenay is tremendous as the sympathetic Hamp. You really feel for him. No wonder he received the award for the Best Actor for this role at the 1964 Venice Film Festival.
Beyond this King & Country was also nominated for the Golden Lion which is highest prize given to a film at the Venice Film Festival. And the film also won the British Academy Award for best picture of 1964.
As for this DVD release the film is presented in it's original full screen format and the audio is 2.0 Dolby digital. I have to say the picture looks and sounds good. There is some signs of film deterioration. But they are minor and don't distract you from watch the film.
As for bonus features. Their is an original trailer, bios, Coming attractions for, "Room at the top", "And than there were none", "The shooting", "Beyond Tomorrow", "Ride in the whirlwind", "The glass house", "Sundown" and "The Southerner". A little thin for bonus features, but at least it is something, I guess!
So if your a fan of British films or classic films in general. I would have to say that "King & Country" is a defiantly must see. So head over to MVDShop.com and get your copy today.
Objectionable Material: Mild adult language, disturbing images of war and violence
Audience: May not be suitable for sensitive audiences
Genre: War, Drama
Length: 1 Hour 26 Minutes
DVD Released: 2019
DVD Value Rating: B
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