Loving Walter
(DVD)

DVD, Region 1, full screen presentation; Dolby Digital.

Originally released as a motion picture in 1982.

Based on the novel "Walter" by David Cook.

Special features: exclusive interviews with Sir Ian McKellen; director Stephen Frears and writer David Cook; biographies; selected filmographies; futile treatments of the mentally ill.

Photography, Chris Menges ; art director, Michael Minas ; editor, Mick Audsley ; music, George Fenton ; costume designer, Monica Howe.

Ian McKellen, Barbara Jefford, Sarah Miles, Gordon Sinclair, Tony Doyle, Jim Broadbent, Christine Hargreaves, Catherine Schofield.

From birth Walter has been a fighter. Through his own efforts, he learns to read and write, and even manages to hold down a menial job. But when his parents die, Walter suddenly finds himself alone and unable to cope with crowds, the noise and the world outside his home. The only solution is for him to stay at a psychiatric hospital. Eventually his spirit wins out over his fears and he creates a new life for himself, even finding a love interest.

MPAA rating: Not rated.