Withnail & I

An, at times, howlingly funny slice of the end of the '60s memorabilia, this 1986 British cult hit centers on two cockney lads, circa 1969, whose lives revolve around drugs, alcohol, and auditions (they are both reasonably unsuccessful actors). Psychologically burnt to a crisp and terrified over what might be growing in the untouched-in-months kitchen sink, the pair--in desperation--decide to go on holiday to Withnail's uncle's countryside cottage, where they soon discover that (for London boys) the rugged outdoors can be a harsh trial, indeed. But environment takes a back seat when Withnail's uncle drops in and takes a fancy to his nephew's friend. Richard Grant is the epitome of comic lunacy as Withnail, Paul McGann is admirably restrained as the "I" who feels that a lifestyle change may be in order for the '70s, Richard Griffiths is comically frightening as the orotund (as well as simply rotund) Uncle Monty who loves his boys (when he's lucky), and writer/director Bruce Robinson deserves a big nod for giving cult fans so many wonderfully quotable lines ("my thumbs have gone weird") in this semi-autobiographical offbeat gem. Criterion has done a typically excellent job on the disc, which is presented widescreen in a pristine image and crisp Dolby Digital mono. Extras include an entertaining short tribute with Robinson, Grant, McCann and others. Definitely recommended. (R. Pitman)[Blu-ray Review—Aug. 31, 2010—Image, 107 min., R, $17.98—Making its first appearance on Blu-ray, 1986's Withnail and I features a good transfer with uncompressed PCM stereo sound. Blu-ray extras include a trailer. Bottom line: a cult classic comedy makes a solid debut on Blu-ray.]