2 Tony Hancock Comedies Set For Vintage Classics Collection Release

Tony Hancock is British comedy royalty and Studiocanal UK know that. 2024 marked a centenary since he was born and Vintage Classics Collection will be adding 2 of Hancock’s films The Rebel plus The Punch And Judy Man.

Hancock is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in British comedy history. Born in Birmingham, England, Hancock initially pursued acting but early struggles to find success encouraged him to turn to comedy.

Finding fame in the late 1950s with the BBC radio sitcom ‘Hancock’s Half Hour’, his portrayal of the lovably self-absorbed character resonated deeply with audiences and, making the move to television, the programme quickly became a national institution. Hancock’s comedy was notable for its subtle, intelligent wit and his ability to convey vulnerability within the humor. A master of the “tragicomic” genre, he used his character’s failings, frustrations and self-delusion to create a unique blend of laughter and pathos, paving the way for later comedy icons such as Alan Partridge and David Brent.

Having struggled with declining mental health and alcoholism for some years, Tony Hancock died in 1968, leaving behind a legacy that continues to permeate British comedy to this day.

Both films set for release on DVD and Blu-Ray on 3rd March 2025., with a number of extra features (all details below).

THE REBEL (1961)

Dir :Robert Day / Written: Tony Hancock, Ray Galton, Alan Simpson | Starring: Tony Hancock, George Sanders, Paul Massie, Margit Saad, Nanette Newman, Irene Handl, Dennis Price

Comedy legend Tony Hancock makes his feature film-starring debut in this witty satire that takes both white-collar monotony and the pretensions of the art-world in its crosshairs.

A self-taught artist with an enthusiasm that far exceeds any ability, Anthony Hancock throws in his hollow office job and moves to Paris to live his dream. Although he quickly finds acceptance among the bohemians and beatniks, legitimate critics scoff at his work. However, he begins to taste critical success when the art of his talented former roommate becomes confused with his own.

Extras material
New! An Irrepressible Streak: Paul Merton on The Rebel
New! A Definitive Comedian: Diane Morgan on Tony Hancock
– Commentary with comedian Paul Merton and screenwriters Ray Galton and Alan Simpson
– Behind the Scenes Stills Gallery
– Theatrical trailer

Pre-Order The Rebel

THE PUNCH AND JUDY MAN (1963)

Dir: Jeremy Summers / Written: Phillip Oakes, Tony Hancock | Starring: Tony Hancock, Sylvia Syms, John Le Mesurier, Barbara Murray, Ronald Fraser

Appearing in his second feature film-starring role, Tony Hancock gives a memorable performance in this bittersweet comedy of small-town snobbery and one-upmanship.

Content to scratch out a living in the faded seaside town of Piltdown, puppeteer Wally Pinner (Hancock) is unhappily married to Delia (Sylvia Syms), a gift-shop owner with social pretensions. When Wally is invited to perform at the town’s anniversary gala reception, however, Delia senses a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to raise the couple’s social standing…

Extras material
New! Hard Knocks: Paul Merton on The Punch and Judy Man
– Excerpt from ABC Series HANCOCK’S
– BEHP Audio interview extract with Jeremy Summers
– Blackpool Show: Season 1 Episode 7 (1966)
– Behind the Scenes Stills Gallery
– Theatrical trailer