Helen Mirrens Oscar winning performance in The Queen and her Golden Globe winning performance in Elizabeth I are merely the capstones of an illustrious and distinguished 40 year career. Ever since she wowed theater audiences as a 20 year old at England's National Youth Theater, Mirren has brought a fresh and commanding presence to all her roles.

New for the first time, BBC Video presents nine defining television performances from the early career of this truly remarkable actress. In productions dating from 1974-1982 and ranging from Bernard Shaw's The Apple Cart with Nigel Davenport and Pruella Scales to Dennis Potter's acclaimed television play Blue Remembered Hills, this collection showcases a young actress already in firm command and on her way to true stardom.

Also included is a newly recorded interview in which Helen Mirren reflects back on these early triumphs. Put together, this collection is a rare treasury of one of the greatest performers of our time.