Released: 7th September 2026. Brash, bohemian and boozy, bon-vivant Daniel Farson became a larger-than-life fixture of Soho in the 1950s, socialising with the likes of artist Francis Bacon and photographer John Deakin. But he was also a ground-breaking investigative journalist, reshaping approaches to screen reportage with the many direct, dynamic independent television films he presented for Associated-Rediffusion in the late 1950s and early 1960s, finding widespread fame and acclaim.
Thisthree disc dual format set, running to over three hours- the second of two releases showcasing his most innovative, important, eccentric, odd and outstanding work – reframes a carefully-curated chunk of Farson’s now little-seen output. His eclectic talent is reflected in an abundant array of hugely enjoyable, fascinating films on all manner of matters topical to a post-war Britain undergoing complex, seismic social change.
Join this vanguard intrepid investigator – paving the way for later programme-makers of the Louis Theroux school – as he twinkles a curious eye and lends a wry tongue to a glorious gamut of then-contemporary hot-potatoes.
The Films
Out of Step: Tune in to Nature’s Radio (1957, 14 mins)
Out of Step: Nudism (1957, 14 mins)
Out of Step: One Man Against the World (1957, 15 mins)
Out of Step: The Seventh Day (1957, 14 mins)
Keeping in Step: Children’s Parties (1958, 14 mins)
Keeping in Step: This England (1958, 14 mins)
This Week: Teenage Girls (1958, 4-minute extract)
People in Trouble: Unmarried Mothers (1958, 14 mins)
People in Trouble: Sex Education (1958, 14 mins)
Success Story: The Craddocks (1959, 13 mins)
Success Story: Lady Lewisham (1959, 14 mins)
Success Story: Harry Edwards (1959, 14 mins)
Pursuit of Happiness: Rags to Glamour (14 mins)
Something to Say: Shirley Bassey (28 mins)
Living For Kicks (1960, 38 mins)
Extras
Audio commentaries on selected programmes (titles tbc)
Includes newly created optional English descriptive subtitles
Illustrated booklet featuring new writing on all the programmes included