Focussing on the story of the Gibbons family and their associates, This Happy Breed shows the spirit of a nation in a time of adversity. Robert Newton and Celia Johnson preside over their family and all its ups and downs with great dignity, patience and compassion. The story follows their trials and tribulations from the end of the Great War onwards. Adaptaed from the play by Noel Coward and directed by David Lean, This Happy Breed celebrates the stoicism, humour and strength of ordinary British people. The film also features fine performances from Stanley Holloway, Kay Walsh and the young John Mills, who was to work again with Lean in Hobson's Choice and Ryan's Daughter.

Though the First World War has come to an end and the head of the household, Frank, has returned safely, the Gibbons have yet more to deal with. Apart from day to day living in the austere, post-war Britain, the couple also has to contend with their growing children in these changing times. Queenie, one of their daughters, goes to work in a beauty parlour and gets ideas above her station. Meanwhile, their other daughter Phyllis runs off with a married man instead of marrying Billy from next door...

The ever dependable Robert Newton and Celia Johnson turn in outstanding performances, strongly supported by John Mills and Stanley Holloway. This release is more than a wonderful slice of nostalgia; it is also a piece of sumptuous filmmaking by the young David Lean, with a heart-warming, cheering story for rainy days.

This Happy Breed is to be released on UK DVD by Network on 26th January 2009 at the RRP of £15.99. This Special Edition release will feature a brand new disgital restoration of the film and the following extra features:

• Original theatrical trailer;
• Re-release trailer;
• Restoration comparison featurette;
• Extensive South Bank Show feature on David Lean;
• Commemorative booklet by noted British film historian David Rolinson;
• Extensive stills gallery, including behind the scenes images;
• Original Pressbook and material in PDF format.