The BBC and Warner Home Video jointly announced today that they will be releasing the 1978 mini-series
Pennies From Heaven, starring Bob Hoskins and Cheryl Campbell. Dennis Potter, the man behind
The Singing Detective, also wrote this 6-part British mini-series.
The masterpiece - winner of the 1978 BAFTA Award for Best Drama - follows the adventures, mishaps, and yearnings of a traveling song sheet peddler on a tight commission as he tries to make dreams fit the promises of the lyrics he carries. Part Everyman drama, part Busby Berkley spectacle,
Pennies from Heaven follows the amorous and financial struggles of Arthur Parker (Hoskins) during the depression thirties in England. Despite the misfortunes he encounters, Arthur still believes that life can be like a song.
The 3-DVD package, complete with bonus audio commentary, arrives in stores on July 27th. The list price for this item, which has never been released to home video before, is $59.98. Here's the cover art:
Oh, and for those of you wondering whether or not this release has anything in the world to do with the 1981 feature film by the same name, starring Steve Martin and Bernadette Peters, the answer is "yes." That film was essentially a remake of the Bob Hoskins mini-series. And no, Warner didn't forget about fans of that film, either. Expect it to be released on the same date, also featuring a commentary track (plus a cast & crew reunion featurette), for under $20. You're welcome!
