On The Beach [Blu-ray]

Stanley Kramer's On the Beach, based on the novel by Nevil Shute, is considered a landmark entry in the 'doomsday drama' genre. Set in the near future of 1964, the film explores the aftermath of a nuclear holocaust that has virtually wiped out life on Earth, leaving only Australia spared—for a short time. Witness the powerful performances of an all-star cast as humanity faces its final moments.

• Blu-ray edition featuring the 1959 film directed by Stanley Kramer.
• Includes optional English descriptive subtitles.
• Features an all-star cast including Gregory Peck, Ava Gardner, Fred Astaire, Anthony Perkins, and Donna Anderson.
• Includes bonus materials such as an audio commentary and original theatrical trailer.

With only a short time left before radiation poisoning reaches Australia, the remaining population reacts in varied ways, from revelry to accepting government-issued suicide pills. The plot centers on a submarine commander (Gregory Peck) who leads a mission to San Diego after detecting faint radio signals, hoping for signs of life in the Northern hemisphere. The film explores the emotional toll on characters like Peck’s lover (Ava Gardner), a guilt-wracked nuclear scientist (Fred Astaire), and young parents facing an impossible decision (Anthony Perkins and Donna Anderson).

• Audio commentary written by Dr Philip Davey, read by actor Douglas Hansell.
• Making On the Beach (1959, 9 mins): rare 8mm footage shot by amateur filmmaker Douglas Brockfield.
• Interview with Donna Anderson (2015, 20 mins): the actress discusses working with the cast and crew.
• Original theatrical trailer.
• Stills gallery.
• **FIRST PRESSING ONLY:** Illustrated booklet featuring new essays by Christina Brennan and Barry Forshaw and a biography of Stanley Kramer by Jennifer Frost.

• Format: Blu-ray
• Language: English
• Runtime: 2 hours and 14 minutes
• Aspect Ratio: 16
• Rated: Parental Guidance
• Actors: Anthony Perkins, Ava Gardner, Donna Anderson, Fred Astaire, Gregory Peck
• Director: Stanley Kramer
• Release Date: 27 July 2026
• Model Number: BFIB1572

Experience this essential piece of cinematic history in high definition with this Bfi Blu-ray release.