"BLUE BLOOD" A WINNER

Here is a DVD that proves there are serious problems in the British film world, despite its many successes.

A terrific film, widely praised, it did not find enough cinemas to give any more than the shortest of theatrical outings in May.

So much of the movie going audience has been denied the chance to see a brilliant story where it belongs: on the big screen.

It is a documentary and, even though documentaries are gaining rapidly in popularity, that was always going to make it harder for Blue Blood to reach a wide market.

But it defies its documentary restrictions to deliver a wonderful portrait of the little known but stirring world of varsity boxing.

Its format is simple: the pursuit of six young hopeful as they compete for the honouor of boxing for Oxford against Cambridge.

If you are still thinking that all the academic elite are soft in any way, this film will quickly and viscerally disabuse. Oh, and it is startlingly funny at the same time.

Total Film gave it 4 stars, saying: "They’re a sorry collection of freaks and geeks, but Riley’s sharp eye for the human interest angle nails the blood, sweat and tears that go into being an Oxford blue. Plus there’s something very satisfying about seeing over-privileged posh boys getting their toffee noses smashed in."

Directed by Stevan Riley, it lasts a full 12 rounds – or 89 minutes – and includes some excellent Q&A footage, all for £15.99 from October 1st.

You can read Stevan Riley's blog on the film in the Interview section on this site.

Filed September 20, 2007