Ruthlessness and Ambition: a School’s True Face

Read Time:4 Minute, 45 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Unman, Wittering, and Zigo
GP (adult content) –

Genre: Drama, Thriller
Year Released: 1971, 2023 Arrow Video Blu-ray
Runtime: 1h 42m
Director(s): John Mackenzie
Writer(s): Simon Raven, Giles Cooper
Cast: David Hemmings, Carolyn Seymour, Douglas Wilmer, Tony Haygarth, David Auker, David Jackson, Barbara Lott, Hamilton Dyce, Donald Gee, Hubert Rees, Tom Morris, Richard Gill, Michael Kitchen, Nicholas Hoye, Tom Owen, Toby Simpson, James Wardroper
Where To Watch: available August 22, 2023, pre-order here www.arrowvideo.com, www.mvdshop.com, or www.amazon.com

RAVING REVIEW: You're about to enter the halls of Chantrey School for Boys, but be warned: behind the discipline and decorum lies a mysterious tale that's anything but ordinary. UNMAN, WITTERING, AND ZIGO does more than just open the doors to this British private institution; it thrusts you into an eerie world where intrigue and fear reign.

The story introduces us to John Ebony, played by David Hemmings, who embodies the role of a hopeful new schoolteacher with a zest for education. Alongside his energetic wife, Sylvia (Carolyn Seymour), they dream of inspiring young minds but are soon entangled in a web of enigmas and mutiny. The students of Lower 5B resist John's authority, and the unresolved death of his predecessor, coupled with the disappearance of a student named Zigo, casts a shadow over the school's seemingly stern façade.

Director John Mackenzie and cinematographer Geoffrey Unsworth, noted for crafting visual suspense, paint a picture that's more than merely unsettling; it's a palpable sensation that lingers in every frame. The conversion of Giles Cooper's play into this cinematic gem unveils the hidden crevices of a system once believed to foster integrity but instead brews a cauldron of ambition and ruthlessness.

But UNMAN, WITTERING, AND ZIGO isn't just a thriller. It resonates with the audience by evoking memories of their own school experiences, the relentless pressures from demanding teachers, and the anxiety that comes with adolescence. The transformation of these universal encounters into the film's emotional depth fabric creates a connection that transcends the screen.

Set against the backdrop of 1971's flourishing English cinema landscape, this tale explores the unchecked ferocity within standardized education and the bleakness of a system marred by rigidity and severe discipline. The vivid portrayal weaves an image that breaks free from its period, transcending time and culture. Somehow this was originally rated GP (All ages admitted – Parental guidance suggested); I will say it should not be for all ages, just my two cents.

At the heart of the film's psychological complexity is Hemmings' portrayal of John Ebony. His journey from a dog-eat-dog advertising career to the longing for something more meaningful unravels into an unimaginable twist. His students' shocking claim to have orchestrated their former teacher's demise ignites a fierce struggle, a dance between strength and vulnerability within the school's stifling confines.

With its carefully chosen title hinting at the complexity and literary depth, this thriller is an emblem of an era rich in bold cinema. It offers an acute dissection of human psychology, becoming more than just a movie but an immersion into an experience that lingers.

UNMAN, WITTERING, AND ZIGO is an engaging, haunting, and surprisingly human exploration of intimidation and concealed terror within the outwardly orderly institution. Its strong narrative, compelling acting, and thought-provoking theme make it a must-see for anyone looking to delve into a complex reflection of our world. It's not just a cinematic piece but an intellectual adventure that endures long after the final scene. Allow yourself to be drawn into this unique world and unearth a hidden treasure of English filmmaking that's rich, evocative, and utterly unforgettable.

Bonus Materials
High Definition (1080p) Blu-ray presentation
Original lossless English mono audio
Optional English subtitles for people who are deaf or hard of hearing and hard-of-hearing
Brand new audio commentary by Sean Hogan and Kim Newman
Brand new appreciation by critic, broadcaster, and cultural historian Matthew Sweet
Unman, Terhew, Lipstrob, and Mrs. Ebony featurette with cast members Michael Howe, Michael Cashman, James Wardroper, and Carolyn Seymour looking back at the production
The original 1958 recording of Giles Cooper’s radio play
Original trailer
Image Gallery
Double-sided fold-out poster featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Eric Adrian Lee
Reversible sleeve featuring original and newly commissioned artwork by Eric Adrian Lee
Illustrated collector’s booklet featuring new writing on the film by Kevin Lyons and Oliver Wake

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[photo courtesy of ARROW VIDEO, MVD ENTERTAINMENT]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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