Paula Hammond - Features EditorMichael Craig and Patrick McGoohan give memorably fiery performances as ideological opposites fighting to save the life of a gravely injured young girl in Life for Ruth. Co-starring Janet Munro in a BAFTA-nominated performance, this is a tense, emotionally-charged drama from director Basil Dearden, who may have made his name with Ealing titles such as The Blue Lamp, but wasn’t afraid to tackle the big issues such as race relations (Sapphire) and homosexuality (Victim). In Life For Ruth, the theme is religion.
Badly injured in a boating accident, John and Pat Harris’s daughter, Ruth, is rushed to hospital. They are told that an urgent blood transfusion is needed, but John refuses his consent on religious grounds – even though that would mean his daughter’s death. The ensuing trial forms the focus of the film, giving both leads plenty of material to channel their talents.
Dearden’s skilful handling of the material manages to delver plenty of food-for-thought without descending into mawkish melodrama. And, of course, it’s always a joy to see Patrick McGoohan given the chance to shine. The result is a powerful and provocative film which offers no easy answers but plenty to talk about.
Life For Ruth is featured here as a brand-new remaster from original film elements in its original theatrical aspect ratio.
SPECIAL FEATURES:
• Brand-new interviews with actor Michael Craig and 1st assistant director Anthony Waye.
• Archive career-retrospective interview with Michael Craig.
• Theatrical Trailer.
• Image gallery.
• Limited edition booklet written by Neil Sinyard.
