NOTE: The below Blu-ray captures were taken directly from the Blu-ray disc.

ADDITION: Network Blu-ray (December 2019): Network have transferred the cracking mystery Green For Danger to Blu-ray. It appears to be from the same master as their 2006 DVD with the same marks - although the higher resolution makes them more prominent (we have 4 examples below). There are mostly frame specific and I, for one, don't mind the scratches very much. There is some contrast flickering in the beginning but it settles into a solid viewing with greatly improved black levels. I love tucking-into this film and appreciate the HD presentation, with the occasional, source-related warts. It need s a film-level restoration and we haven't heard that one is forthcoming (although you never know!). It is in the proper 1.37:1 aspect ratio and shows a shade more information in the frame.

NOTE: We have added 36 more large resolution Blu-ray captures for DVDBeaver Patrons HERE.

On their Blu-ray, Network use a linear PCM mono track (16-bit) in the original English language. It is another advancement in the film's audio and brooding score by William Alwyn (The Running Man, So Evil My Love, Burn, Witch Burn, Odd Man Out, On Approval, A Night to Remember and The Fallen Idol) sounding a bit deeper yet still imperfect. Network offer optional English subtitles on their Region 'B' Blu-ray.

The Network Blu-ray has only a 'stills gallery' as an extra. You may wish to hold onto your picture-boxed Criterion for the Bruce Eder commentary.

One of the most re-watchable Brit 'mystery' films - great performances and a building edginess. Green For Danger makes for a great late night viewing or part of a double feature perhaps with something like It Always Rains on Sunday or Brighton Rock. It's a film I am very happy to revisit on Blu-ray. Certainly recommended!

Gary Tooze

ADDITION Criterion DVD (January 2007): Not much to say that the screen caps can't tell you - The Criterion DVD is pictureboxed (see our description of 'pictureboxing' in our Kind Hearts and Coronets review), so it immediately gives up some resolution to the PAL DVD (than simply the standard difference). Still though, the Criterion transfer is far superior - sharper and cleaner - massively better contrast. Framing too goes Criterions way as it shows more information in the frame (meaning the Network edition is quite drastically cropped).

Historian Bruce Eder gives a fantastic commentary with no pauses or gaps. He relates plot details that differed from the book and many minute production eccentricities that give a strong appreciation of the film. Really a very professional and prepared commentary. Excellent choice by Criterion!

There is a 15 minute interview with Geoff Brown - he recounts many of the film's unique attributes that give it quite a special place for its era. There are a lot of stills used (as opposed to a talking head).

Liner notes too from Criterion. 18 pages worth with quality photos and nice artwork.

This is an under-appreciated film and the Criterion price is quite reasonable for all you get. Recommended!

***

The Network (2006): The single-layered DVD image is quite weak - there are a lot of instances of dirt and debris - light scratches and digital noise. Contrast is blended but we must remember the film is over 60 years old and there is no sign of restoration or cleaning on the progressive transfer. It is still most definitely tube-watchable. No extras and the price reflects that.

The film is enjoyable - a mystery with a touch of comedy - lots of interesting atmosphere. Trevor Howard and Sim slide perfectly into their roles. It sneaks into the Noir listing and fans of the 'dark cinema' will find this a nice treat.