The immortal screen couple Spencer Tracy and Katharine Hepburn (Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner) take the lead in this fabulously witty political comedy drama from director Frank Capra (It’s a Wonderful Life), filmed against the background of the 1948 Presidential election.
Wealthy aeroplane manufacturer Grant Matthews is encouraged to become a presidential candidate by his girlfriend, press baron Kay Thorndyke. Forced to publicly reunite with his estranged wife Mary in order to present the illusion of a happy marriage, he comes close to nomination. But, as Grant and Mary realise that political success will mean compromising their principles, Grant has a change of heart.
Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Harold Lindsay and Russel Crouse (The Sound of Music), and with supporting turns from Angela Lansbury (Gaslight) and Adolphe Menjou (The Sniper), State of the Union is a brilliant blend of political satire and romantic comedy.
Release Information:
Technical Specifications
Supplements
- Audio commentary with critics and writers Claire Kenny, Glenn Kenny and Farran Smith Nehme (2023)
- The John Player Lecture with Angela Lansbury (1973, 89 mins): archival audio recording of the celebrated star of film, stage and television in conversation with Rex Reed at London’s National Film Theatre
- National Treasure (2023, 29 mins): academic Lucy Bolton discusses the life and eventful career of the much-loved performer Angela Lansbury
- Original opening and closing titles
- Original theatrical trailer
- Image gallery: promotional and publicity materials
- Limited edition exclusive 40-page booklet with a new essay by Raquel Stecher, archival interviews with director Frank Capra, an account of the working relationship and contrasting politics of co-stars Katharine Hepburn and Adolphe Menjou, an overview of contemporary critical responses, and full film credits