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Sir Francis Drake [1961]
![Sir Francis Drake [1961]](http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51ZH5VRVX2L._SL160_.jpg)
RRP: £29.99
Our Price: £17.92 (subject to change)
Best of the British Historical TV Series
Review date: 2007-04-09 Rating: 10 out of 10
Unlike many of the other British historical series of the mid-fifties to early sixties, I never saw Sir Francis Drake prior to my purchase of this set. Therefore, my judgement is not biased by any nostalgic memory. I also admit that I have not watched all the episodes (unlike some enthusiastic viewers of old TV series, I can't buy a series and watch all the episodes back-to-back; I pull them out as the mood for one or another hits me). That being said, I believe this to be the best historical show from England that I have seen. The production values are excellent; it has a dynamic actor for the lead; a great supporting cast made up of very familiar faces of the British film industry from its production time period; lean, fast moving stories with numerous settings; and wonderful photography and music. The shows come across as 25 minute above average B-movies, in the best meaning of that phrase. Slightly on the down side, land based battles could have been staged a little better (note that the ancient fire-locks don't actually fire; a shot can be heard but hammers don't fall and no smoke issues from the barrels). I admit to being slightly disappointed by the first episode, "The Prisoner", this was drawn out and somewhat predictable (it also had its opening titles in FRENCH!)but the next two "The Lost Colony" and "Mary Queen of Scots" were much, much better.
As another reviewer observed, I also wish there were more 26 episodes filmed.
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Reviews
Surprisingly unpredictable and thought provocing.
Review date: 2006-03-07 Rating: 6 out of 10
The series is in Black and White but don't be put off because the picture is clear and sharp with good sound quality.
The actors perform as if on stage, which is typical for early T.V.. Action scenes are so bad as to at times be hilarious.
What I like is the unpredictability of the plot lines. Drake breaks every rule in the book if it suits him, so there is no way of anticipating his next move.
The plots are inspired by historical characters and events, but are in no way true to them.
For those of us born after the series was made, there are some familar faces, such as Michael Crawford as ship's mate and a guest appearance by Anthony Hopkins.
There are no extras, which is a shame.
Overall its challenging light entertainment, good value if you enjoy it. Definitely something different.
Fantasy Forever
Review date: 2005-08-07 Rating: 10 out of 10
I have waited for this series since seeing it on TV in '62,never thought I would. I bought the Box-set and I have to praise Network Dvd for the excellent quality of the transfers both sound and picture are crisp and clean. As for the program content, it was superb. My only complaint is that there were only 26 episodes made, it could have gone on a hell of a lot longer. Acting is first-rate as are the costumes and the scoring by Ivor Slaney is his best, I have been humming it for years. Thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish, don't hesitate, buy it!! Was this review helpful YES or NO
Product Details/Specifications
Actor(s):
Terence Morgan
Creators:
Terence Morgan (Primary Contributor)
Recording label: Network
Manufacturer: Network
EAN: 5027626217747
Binding: DVD
Number of items: 1
Format: Black & White, PAL,
Release date: 2005-04-25
Audience rating: Parental Guidance
Region code: 2
Running time: 652 minutes
Theatrical release date: 1961
Language: English (Original Language)