Silver Spring, MD — The Ruth Rendell Mysteries, Set 4, featuring two Inspector Wexford mysteries based on the fiction of bestselling British crime-writer Ruth Rendell, arrives on DVD from Acorn Media on April 14, 2009. Starring George Baker and Christopher Ravenscroft in roles they made famous, the feature-length mysteries from the popular television series aired in syndication on public television in the 1990s.

Like Agatha Christie, the name Ruth Rendell has become universally recognized as a quality British mystery “brand.” With intellectually challenging plots, unique psychological depth, and clear-eyed social observations, these Inspector Wexford mysteries, Simisola and Road Rage, reinforce the brand’s sterling reputation.

Simisola—Chief Inspector Wexford’s Nigerian-born physician asks the detective to look into the abrupt disappearance of his 22-year-old daughter. The trail eventually leads Wexford (George Baker) and DI Mike Burden (Christopher Ravenscroft) to two murders, and the investigators grapple with an emotionally charged case complicated by racial and class misunderstandings. The mystery co-stars Jane Lapotaire and George Harris. Approx. 152 min.

Road Rage—While environmental activists disrupt the construction of a highway bypass, the body of a missing German tourist turns up in the woods, strangled and sexually assaulted. As clashes between protesters and security forces escalate into violence, a radical group engineers a series of kidnappings, with Wexford’s beloved wife among the hostages. Road Rage co-stars Louie Ramsay, Diane Keen, and Robin Kermode. Approx. 201 min.

The Ruth Rendell Mysteries is a British television series made for ITV from 1987-2000. The series included adaptations of the works of Ruth Rendell, one of the most honored, prolific, and critically acclaimed modern crime writers.

Special Features: Super Sleuths: Inspector Wexford, a documentary featuring George Baker; and Ruth Rendell biography.

Headquartered in suburban Washington, D.C., Acorn Media distributes distinctive home video releases to the North American market with a special focus on the best of British television. Acorn’s DVD sets are available from select retailers, catalog companies, and direct from Acorn Media at (888) 870-8047 or www.acornonline.com.