A Fated Ship

This documentary looks at the construction of a replica of the HMS Bounty, in Whangerei. The ship was commissioned for a film about the famous mutiny, which legendary British director David Lean (Lawrence of Arabia) was originally set to helm. Fidelity to the original is paramount, except the 20th century edition has a steel hull. Construction continues despite the uncertain fortunes of the film, as producer Dino De Laurentiis and David Lean part ways. Lean's two-part project was ultimately abandoned after financing faltered; the ship went on to star in Kiwi director Roger Donaldson's version of the story.

We’re only shipbuilders, not filmmakers pal.

– A representative of the Whangerei Engineering Company to a rep from the Dino De Laurentiis Corporation

Key Cast & Crew

Bill Saunders

Narrator, Writer

Lynton Diggle

Camera

Judy Rymer

Editor

William Southgate

Composer

Derek Wright

Producer

Wayne Tourell

Director