UK-based independent distributor Radiance Films is kicking off the new year with a bang! On January 27, 2025, three compelling titles will be added to their impressive catalogue, featuring a mix of paranoia, thrilling storytelling, and classic drama. All titles are now available for pre-order from the Radiance online store.
1. Weak Spot – A Paranoid Thriller
Kicking off the slate is the world-exclusive Blu-ray release of Weak Spot, a masterful thriller directed by Peter Fleischmann. The film stars Ugo Tognazzi (known for La Grande Bouffe) as an unsuspecting holiday representative in Greece. His idyllic vacation turns into a nightmare when he’s targeted by two secret agents (played by Michel Piccoli and Mario Adorf), who suspect him of being involved in an underground resistance. This sets the stage for a gripping cat-and-mouse game that cleverly exploits Tognazzi’s screen persona.
- Restoration & Extras: Newly restored in 4K by Studio Canal, Weak Spot features an audio commentary by Travis Woods, an archival interview with Michel Piccoli, and a booklet with fresh insights from Kat Ellinger. There’s also a discussion on Ennio Morricone’s haunting score, led by soundtrack expert Lovely Jon.
2. Underworld Beauty – A Seijun Suzuki Classic
Following the successful release of Tattooed Life, Radiance Films brings you the world Blu-ray premiere of Seijun Suzuki’s Underworld Beauty (1958). This noir gem follows Miyamoto, a thief who retrieves diamonds from a past heist only to find himself entangled in a deadly game of crime lords and gangsters, alongside his new partner-in-crime, Akiko.
- Special Features: This release comes loaded with extras, including a newly filmed interview with critic Mizuki Kodama, a booklet featuring new and archival writings, and Suzuki’s 1959 short film Love Letter, which includes an audio commentary by William Carroll.
3. Il Posto + I Fidanzati – A Double-Disc Olmi Set
Finally, Radiance Films is thrilled to present a double-disc set featuring two iconic dramas by director Ermanno Olmi: Il Posto (1961) and I Fidanzati (1963).
- In Il Posto: Young Domenico is thrust into the big city by his family to secure a job for life. His journey leads him to form a friendship with Antonietta, and together, they navigate the ups and downs of modern work life.
- In I Fidanzati: Giovanni works at a manufacturing plant and accepts a promotion that takes him to Sicily, leaving behind his fiancée and family. As he starts to wonder about his choices, the film explores themes of isolation and longing.
- Bonus Features: This beautifully shot release includes three newly filmed interviews, an appreciation from Maurizio Zaccaro, and a booklet featuring writing from Christina Newland.
Don’t Miss Out on these Radiance Film hits in January 2025
All three titles will be available for purchase on January 27, 2025. Be sure to secure your copies now from the Radiance online store to enjoy these unique cinematic experiences as they arrive in the new year!
