Black Jack (Ken Loach, 1979) – released 21 June

DVD premiere of this visually stunning feature film, adapted from Leon Garfield’s children’s novel, set in 1750s York. Directed by one of Britain’s most celebrated directors, Ken Loach.

Black Jack – The Director’s Cut
A film by Ken Loach

The BFI is proud to present the world premiere of Ken Loach's director's cut of Black Jack. Available for the first time on DVD in the UK, this ‘lost’ Loach also features a director's commentary recorded exclusively for the BFI. Black Jack is the first of a new strand of adaptations of children’s literary classics to be released on DVD by the BFI this year.

Based on Leon Garfield’s popular novel, this long-unseen film adaptation from celebrated British filmmaker Ken Loach is an adventure story which will capture the imagination of adults and children alike.

When honest young Tolly Pickering is forced to go on the run with a villainous ruffian named Black Jack, adventure and mishap are never far away. As the two enter a world of body-snatchers, private lunatic asylums and travelling fairs, they find friendship in the most unlikely places.

With Chris Menges’ beautiful photography, enchanting performances by its charismatic young cast and Loach’s gentle, observational style – similarly seen in his earlier feature Kes (1969) – Black Jack received the Critics’ award at the 1979 Cannes Film Festival.

Special features

- Exclusive feature commentary by director Ken Loach
- English and French language versions of the feature
- Illustrated booklet with newly commissioned essays, extracts from Terry Deary’s Horrible Histories series and more
- Original trailer
- Deleted scenes

Release date: 21 June 2010
RRP: £15.99 / cat. no. BFIVD844 / cert PG
UK / 1979 / colour / English, optional subtitles for the hearing-impaired /
98 mins / DVD-9 / Aspect ratio 1.56:1 / Dolby Digital mono audio (320 kbps)

I have to admit I haven't seen this at all. I might have a copy of this on a vhs IF Film4 showed it as part of their Loach season about 10 years ago. I know The Gamekeeper was, but can't remember re this - I suppose I'll have to rummage through piles of dusty, mouldering tapes...

Director's Cut? Does anyone know how this came about?

The visuals are quite beautiful at times. The transfer itself is excellent; the print used is pretty good but with cigarette burns and the odd bit of dirt and 'sparkle'. The booklet suggests this is the best print available; perhaps that's why this is a DVD-only release.