Based on the award-winning play by Jonathan Harvey, first performed at the Bush Theatre, the 1996 romantic comedy Beautiful Thing is a classic coming of age and coming out film. Funded by Channel 4 Films, it was produced by the legendary Tony Garnett, who thought the play would make a better film. Stage director Hettie Macdonald (The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry) reprised her role with her first film venture. This feel-good 90s favourite, its uplifting soundtrack featuring songs by Cass Elliotand The Mamas and The Papas, makes its UK debut on Blu-ray in March. Special features include a commentary by the director and writer and a filmed Q&A.

During a long hot summer in south London, Jamie (Glen Berry) is bunking off school more than usual, scurrying back to the TV and the flat on the Thamesmead estate where he lives with his mother Sandra (Linda Henry). Meanwhile his neighbour Leah (Tameka Empson), who's been kicked out of school, spends her days listening to Mama Cass records. In the same block is Jamie's sporty classmate Ste (Scott Neal), whose home life is punctuated by the regular beatings he receives from both his father and brother. One night, in a bid to escape the violence, Ste takes refuge in Sandra's flat and sleeps head to toe with Jamie. As Sandra struggles with a job promotion and her relationship with her hippy boyfriend Tony, Jamie and Ste gradually discover their affection for each other.

Beautiful Thing will be released on UK Blu-ray, iTunes and Amazon Prime on 18 March 2024 by the BFI at the RRP of £19.99 for the Blu-ray.

BLU-RAY SPECIAL FEATURES:

• Newly recorded audio commentary with director Hettie Macdonald, writer Jonathan Harvey and assistant director Susie Liggat
• Beautiful Thing Q&A (2023, 32 mins): a post-screening discussion with Jonathan Harvey, Hettie Macdonald, Susie Liggat and cast member Glen Berry
• Living at Thamesmead (1974, 25 mins): a short film showing the architecture and landscaping of Thamesmead, and everyday lives of the residents
• Crashing Waves (2018, 4 mins): a short film set against the backdrop of a high-rise housing estate where two young men connect
• Beautiful Thing rainbow plaque unveiling (2023, 1 min)
• Theatrical trailer
• First pressing only: Illustrated booklet with essays by Simon McCallum, David Robson, Áine Grace, Vic Pratt and Emily Maskell; notes on the special features and credits