A Man for All Seasons

That this stately costume piece from Fred Zinneman proved an enormous critical and commercial smash in its day is likely due to how much of an anachronism it was in 1966. This was the height of the swinging 60s, when those who weren't dedicated followers of fashion were drawn to grim kitchen sink dramas or else having their heads turned by European new waves. By contrast, a precious formality pervades A Man For All Seasons. In a decade marked by social transgression, the film's religious and moral absolutism would have doubtlessly been reassuring.

Paul Scofield puts in a sterling performance as Sir Thomas More, the 16th century Lord Chancellor of England who refused to sanction the annulment of Henry VIII's first wedding. There isn't a great deal of complexity to the protagonist who is universally liked and respected for his unwavering faith and refusal to kowtow to power, but our touchingly pious star is complimented by scenery chewing turns from Orson Welles and Robert Shaw.

This may not be the most forward looking of pictures, but it offers glimpses of magic few have been able to harness since.

Extras

· Gorgeous High-definition presentation
· Optional English subtitles
· The Life of Saint Thomas More – featurette
· Original Theatrical Trailer
· Masters of Cinema exclusive trailer
· BOOKLET featuring new writing on the film.