Criterion to Release Withnail and I 4K Blu-ray on May 20

Criterion Collection is set to release the highly acclaimed British comedy Withnail and I in a stunning new 4K Blu-ray edition on May 20, 2025. Directed by Bruce Robinson, this cult classic follows the misadventures of two struggling actors, Withnail (Richard E. Grant) and the unnamed “I” (Paul McGann), as they escape their bleak London flat for a disastrous countryside retreat. The film, celebrated for its sharp, witty dialogue and deeply poignant exploration of friendship, is a hallmark of British dark comedy.

The Criterion edition offers a pristine 4K restoration, supervised by director of photography Peter Hannan, with an uncompressed monaural soundtrack to ensure an enriched viewing experience. Enthusiasts will greatly appreciate the dual audio commentaries: one from 2020 featuring Bruce Robinson and another from 2001 with Ralph Brown and Paul McGann.

Additional enriching features include a new short program with Robinson and Richard E. Grant, the making-of documentary Withnail and Us (1999), and a British Film Institute Q&A from 2017, providing rare insights directly from the creator and cast. Moreover, a stills gallery boasts photographs by artist Ralph Steadman, intensifying the discourse around this beloved film.

Release Contents:

• NEW 4K RESTORATION: Supervised by the director of photography Peter Hannan, with uncompressed monaural soundtrack.
• Two audio commentaries: Featuring Bruce Robinson in 2020 and actors Ralph Brown and Paul McGann in 2001.
• New short program: Featuring Robinson and actor Richard E. Grant.
• Withnail and Us (1999): A documentary about the film's making.
• BFI Q&A from 2017: Featuring Robinson and Grant.
• Stills gallery: Includes photographs by Ralph Steadman.
• Trailer.
• English subtitles for the deaf and hard of hearing.
• PLUS: An essay by critic David Cairns.

Release Date: 20/05/2025