The story behind the historical court martial case that sought to establish the definitive facts regarding the infamous mutiny against Captain Bligh on the HMS Bounty. A sturdy and traditional naval courtroom drama that avoids the high-seas spectacle of cinema versions to focus instead on the legal and moral fallout of the rebellion. While the production is constrained by the technical limits of mid-sixties television, it benefits from a literate script by Stanley Miller that treats the historical record with respect.
The fascination here lies in seeing several future stars of British film and television in their early years. John Hurt is particularly effective as Peter Haywood, providing a grounded emotional center to the rigid military proceedings. It serves as a thoughtful companion piece to the more famous dramatizations of the Breadfruit Voyage.
Production Details
UK / ITV - Associated-Rediffusion / 1x90 Minute Episode / 1964
Writers: Stanley Miller
Directors: Cyril Coke
Production Design: Fred Pusey
Main Cast
Robert Perceval as Captain Sir Andrew Snape Hammond
Richard O’Sullivan as Lt John Hallett
John Slater as Mr John Fryer
Kevin Stoney as Mr William Purcell
John Hurt as Peter Haywood
Peter Jeffrey as Muspratt
Derek Francis as Lord Hood
William Marlowe as Millward