Step into the world of British wit and charm with Law and Disorder, a delightful crime comedy from 1958, now beautifully colorized for a fresh viewing experience. Directed by Charles Crichton, this film combines humor, intrigue, and heartfelt drama as it explores the life of a career conman trying to keep his double life hidden from his son. Perfect for fans of classic British cinema, this HD download brings a rare gem of mid-century filmmaking to your screen.
At the heart of Law and Disorder is Percy Brand (Michael Redgrave), a seasoned petty criminal who has spent years perfecting his cons. Percy’s frequent absences due to prison sentences are cleverly disguised with elaborate lies about his supposed heroic exploits—ranging from missionary work in China to military service during World War II. His ultimate goal? To ensure his son Colin (Jeremy Burnham) remains oblivious to his criminal activities while funding his education.
The story takes a turn when Colin grows up to become a barrister and secures a position as an aide to Judge Sir Edward Crichton (Robert Morley), Percy’s longtime nemesis. Determined not to jeopardize his son’s career, Percy vows to retire from crime. However, retirement proves challenging when old habits resurface, leading him into a smuggling scheme involving brandy-filled sharks and a fabricated story about stolen emeralds.
The chaos escalates when Judge Crichton unexpectedly crosses paths with Percy during one of his schemes. What follows is a series of comedic misadventures, courtroom drama, and heartfelt moments as Percy tries to protect his son from discovering the truth about his life.
Law and Disorder features an exceptional ensemble cast that brings its quirky characters to life:
Michael Redgrave as Percy Brand
Robert Morley as Judge Sir Edward Crichton
Ronald Squire as Colonel Masters
Elizabeth Sellars as Gina Laselle
Joan Hickson as Aunt Florence
Lionel Jeffries as Major Proudfoot
Jeremy Burnham as Colin Brand
Brenda Bruce as Mrs. Mary Cooper
This film is a masterful blend of crime comedy and family drama, showcasing the sharp wit and storytelling flair characteristic of British cinema in the 1950s. Its mix of humor, suspense, and emotional depth makes it an enduring classic.
Released in 1958, Law and Disorder reflects the golden era of British comedy films. Directed by Charles Crichton—renowned for classics like The Lavender Hill Mob—the movie captures post-war Britain’s charm while addressing themes of morality, family loyalty, and societal expectations.
The film also stands out for its adaptation of Denys Roberts’ novel Smugglers’ Circuit, blending literary sophistication with cinematic humor. It was initially directed by Henry Cornelius before Charles Crichton took over following Cornelius’ untimely death.
This colorized edition breathes new life into Law and Disorder, meticulously restoring its visual appeal with modern digital techniques. From the vibrant English countryside to the bustling harbor scenes, every frame has been enhanced to offer a richer viewing experience while preserving the film’s original charm.
The colorization process highlights details that were previously subdued in black-and-white format—such as costumes, set designs, and outdoor locations—making it more accessible for contemporary audiences without compromising its authenticity.
Director: Charles Crichton
Screenplay: T.E.B. Clarke, Patrick Campbell, Vivienne Knight
Based on: Smugglers’ Circuit by Denys Roberts
Cinematography: Ted Scaife
Edited by: Oswald Hafenrichter
Music by: Humphrey Searle
Production Company: British Lion Films Limited
Distributed by: British Lion Film Corporation
Runtime: 76 minutes
Download Format: MP4
Resolution: HD (1080p)
Compatibility: Works seamlessly on smartphones, tablets, computers, and smart TVs
While not as widely celebrated as some other British comedies of its time, Law and Disorder has earned praise for its clever script, strong performances, and unique blend of humor and drama. Michael Redgrave’s portrayal of Percy Brand is particularly noteworthy for its balance of comedic timing and emotional depth.
The film also holds historical significance for its exploration of family dynamics within the framework of a crime comedy—a theme that resonates across generations. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to entertain while offering poignant insights into human relationships.
Q: What is Law and Disorder about?
A: The film follows Percy Brand, a career conman who hides his criminal activities from his son while funding his education through ill-gotten gains.
Q: Is this version colorized?
A: Yes! This edition has been professionally colorized to enhance its visual appeal for modern audiences.
Q: Who are the main stars?
A: The film stars Michael Redgrave as Percy Brand and Robert Morley as Judge Sir Edward Crichton.
Q: What makes this film unique?
A: Its combination of sharp British humor, engaging storytelling, and heartfelt family drama sets it apart from other films of its era.
Q: How can I download it?
A: The HD version is available for download in MP4 format, compatible with most devices.
Experience the timeless humor and charm of Law and Disorder today!