‘The Wrong Arm of the Law’ Blu-ray Review
Stars: Peter Sellers, Bernard Cribbins, Davy Kaye, Lionel Jeffries, Nanette Newman, Bill Kerr, Ed Devereaux, Reg Lye | Written by John Warren, Len Heath | Directed by Cliff Owen
Peter Sellers remains one of cinema’s most enduring comedy talents. Although widely recognised for his iconic role in the Pink Panther series, his versatility and sharp wit are equally evident in celebrated works such as Dr. Strangelove, The Mouse That Roared, and The Ladykillers.
Among his many memorable performances is the 1963 British comedy The Wrong Arm of the Law, a film that highlights Sellers at the height of his craft. Kino Lorber Studio Classics has now restored this classic for a high-definition Blu-ray release, offering audiences the opportunity to experience the film in pristine quality.
In this British comic gem of the ’60s, the mighty Peter Sellers (The Ladykillers, The Pink Panther) stars as Pearly Gates, the cockney kingpin of London’s most efficient gang of thieves, organizing spectacular robberies from behind the front of a haute-couture dress salon. Everything goes well until the police start appearing after every job to confiscate the loot. The cunning Pearly realizes there’s a traitor amongst his crew, and no one is above suspicion—not even his fashion model girlfriend Valerie (Nanette Newman, The Raging Moon). Much laughter and lunacy ensue!
British comedy has a distinctive charm, and The Wrong Arm of the Law captures it perfectly with its sharp wit and absurd scenarios that deliver genuine belly laughs. Peter Sellers once again proves himself comedic gold in the role of Pearly Gates, showcasing the impeccable timing and character work that defined his career. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Bernard Cribbins (The Railway Children) bringing his trademark energy to the role of gangster “Nervous” O’Toole, and Lionel Jeffries (Two Way Stretch) delivering a wonderfully memorable turn as Inspector Fred “Nosy” Parker.
Kino Lorber has transferred The Wrong Arm of the Law to Blu-ray in 1080p and presented it in 1.66:1 aspect ratio from a 2023 HD Master from a 4K Scan of the 35mm Original Camera Negative. The audio is an English DTS-HD Master Audio 2.0. There is also the option for English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.
The black and white picture is crisp and clean – we used to hear the term “in glorious black and white”, well, here it is! The Wrong Arm of the Law looks glorious on Blu-ray; however, Kino Lorber have also added some bonus features to this disc, including:
Special Features:
- NEW Audio Commentary by Film Journalist Laurence Lerman
- The Long Arm of the Screenwriter: Interview with Screenwriter John Antrobus
- Theatrical Trailer
Laurence Lerman delivers an excellent new audio commentary, offering fresh insight and appreciation for the film. The included interview with the screenwriter is equally engaging, adding further depth to the viewing experience. Together, these bonus features elevate the Blu-ray release, enhancing its value and making it an even more desirable addition for collectors.
If you are a fan of British Comedy or Peter Sellers and you haven’t seen The Wrong Arm of the Law, I have one simple question for you… What are you waiting for? Pick up this great-looking transfer on Blu-ray from Kino Lorber and enjoy the genius of Peter Sellers.
***** 5/5
The Wrong Arm of the Law is out on Blu-ray now.
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