The Samuel L. Jackson Crime Drama Fresh Gets A Stunning Restoration Ahead Of Its Blu-Ray Release
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Carl Roberts 
Directed by Boaz Yakin and starring Samuel L. Jackson, Sean Nelson and Giancarlo Esposito, Fresh is coming to UK Blu-ray in a restored version.
Boaz Yakin’s award-winning debut film FRESH starring Samuel L. Jackson makes its UK Blu-ray debut on August 25. It comes with a stunning new restoration and brand new extras.
Written and directed by Boaz Yakin (Remember the Titans), FRESH won the Filmmakers Trophy and Grand Jury Prize at the prestigious Sundance Film Festival in 1994. It stars Giancarlo Esposito (Breaking Bad), Samuel L. Jackson (Pulp Fiction) and then-newcomer Sean Nelson (American Buffalo). Sean Nelson won the Special Jury Prize at Sundance. The film also features a tremendous score by Stewart Copeland (Rumblefish, The Equalizer). Additionally, it boasts cinematography by Adam Holdender (Midnight Cowboy).
A CRITICAL SMASH
A critical smash on its release, FRESH is a coming-of-age story about a young boy torn between a life of crime and pursuing academic excellence. The Washington Post describes the film as “an electrifying, sobering movie”. They praised Yakin, calling him “perhaps the most gifted newcomer of the decade”. Sean Nelson is a revelation in the lead role. This marked him out as a rare, natural talent. During an era of remarkably assured debut films, including the likes of Reservoir Dogs and Clerks, FRESH stands out as a timeless, thoughtful classic.
PREMISE
Twelve-year-old Fresh (Sean Nelson) is a runner in Brooklyn. He carries heroin for the intimidating Esteban (Giancarlo Esposito) and crack cocaine for local dealers. Seeking an escape from the ruthless environment he’s been subjected to, Fresh uses the lessons learnt from his chess-playing father (Samuel L. Jackson). He also relies on his own sharp survival instincts to turn his dangerous employers against each other. He hopes that this will free him from their grip.
SPECIAL FEATURES
NEW The Rookie: Director Boaz Yakin on creating a timeless first film (2024)
NEW Fresh on Fresh: Actor Sean Nelson on the prodigy he played (2024)
NEW Framing Fresh with cinematographer Adam Holender (2024)
NEW Fresh Sounds: Composer Stewart Copeland on the unconventional score of Fresh (2024)
Interview with Samuel L. Jackson (1994)
Interview with Giancarlo Esposito (1994)
Interview with Sean Nelson & N’Bushe Wright (1994)
Certificate: 18
Running Time: 114 mins approx.
FRESH is available to buy on Blu-ray and digital from 25th August 2025 and is available to pre-order HERE
Introducing Carl! As the News Editor at Future of the Force, Carl has been an invaluable member of our team since early 2016. His expertise and dedication have made him an integral part of our editorial staff. Beyond his professional role, Carl is a fervent supporter of Liverpool F.C. and an avid follower of pop culture. He has a deep passion for Halloween, Friday the 13th, and the iconic movie franchises Star Wars and Star Trek.
He can be found either at his neighborhood cinema, enjoying the latest releases on the big screen, or at home streaming the newest blockbuster movies.
