Radio On

Christopher Petit’s debut feature Radio On is the rare road movie from England. Since its 1979 release it’s become a cult classic and been recognized as one of one of the “100 Greatest British Films” (Little White Lies). Robert (David Beames), the film’s enigmatic protagonist, embarks on a road trip from London to Bristol, to investigate the recent death of his brother. A remarkable collection of art rock, punk and new wave—David Bowie, Devo, Kraftwerk, Robert Fripp, Ian Dury and more—soundtracks Robert’s journey. The austere urban and rural landscapes he drives through are beautifully and strikingly rendered in black and white by cinematographer Martin Shäfer (who had been Wim Wenders’ camera operator). As Robert drives westward, the radio newscasts he hears and the strangers he meets address the dire sociopolitical and economic state of “Winter of Discontent”-era Britain. Petit deftly melds these stylistic, narrative and documentary elements, resulting in an undeniably eerie and reflective mood that casts a hypnotic spell on the viewer.

Additional info:
• Region A Blu-ray
• Newly scanned & restored in 4k from original 35mm negative
• Audio commentary with filmmaker and historian Kier-La Janisse
• Audio interview with director Chris Petit
• Archival video interview with director Chris Petit and producer Keith Griffiths
• “Before the Explosion of the Image Bank," a new video interview with director Chris Petit
• “Radio On (Remix)," Chris Petit's follow-up digital video essay
• Booklet with essays, stills and cast / crew information
• Image Gallery
• Original theatrical trailer
• Reversible cover artwork
• English SDH subtitles