Old Gold Media Special Branch: The Complete Series [DVD]

First broadcast on ITV in 1969, Special Branch ushered in an entirely new kind of police drama. As well as introducing a new type of character to British viewers – the trendy copper – Special Branch presented storylines reflecting the complexities of the modern world: from government security leaks, people trafficking and terrorism to street crime and corruption. Undergoing changes in style and cast, in 1973 Special Branch would be the first production by Thames’ Euston Films division – later to produce The Sweeney, for which this landmark series is considered the blueprint. Derren Nesbitt stars as the cool, no-nonsense Det. Chief Insp. Jordan (a forerunner to The Sweeney’s Jack Regan), supported by Fulton Mackay as Det. Supt. Inman. The filmed series saw George Sewell and Patrick Mower taking on the lead police roles with Paul Eddington’s imperious MI5 officer, Strand, being introduced in 1974. This complete set presents all four series of Special Branch, transmitted between 1969 and 1974. SPECIAL FEATURES Interview with George Sewell and Patrick Mower (Disc Fourteen)