"Orde Wingate" (1976) TV series

Seasons:

1

Release Date:

16 July 1976 (UK)

Genre:

Drama

Cast

Barry Foster	...	Orde Wingate (3 episodes, 1976)
James Cosmo	...	Brigadier Calvert (3 episodes, 1976)
Arnold Diamond	...	Chaim Weizmann (3 episodes, 1976)
Sandor Elès	...	David Mitzman (3 episodes, 1976)
James Grout	...	Narrator (3 episodes, 1976)
Sheila Ruskin	...	Lorna (3 episodes, 1976)
Nigel Stock	...	General Wavell (3 episodes, 1976)
Dennis Chinnery	...	Reporter (2 episodes, 1976)
Clive Graham	...	Staff Officer (2 episodes, 1976)
Garrick Hagon	...	Cochran (2 episodes, 1976)
Anthony Verner	...	Pilot (2 episodes, 1976)

Runtime:

75 min (3 episodes)

Country:

UK

Language:

English

Color:

Color

Sound Mix:

Mono

Company:

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Excellent stage adaption of Wingate's life and career

I wasn't sure how this play would turn out for me, being a passionate admirer of Wingate, and one who has spent years researching the man's life. I was somewhat surprised at how much I enjoyed this movie, considering the nitpicky tendency I had going in. Barry Foster in particular captured the essential blend of charisma, passion and conviction that characterized Wingate himself. All in all, there was only one notable digression from history, in that Wingate's aide in his Ethiopian campaign was the non-appearing Avraham Akavia. Also, the First Chindit Expedition was largely ignored, though time constraints likely played a role in that decision. Considering the play in its entirety (and play it is, despite some Burma scenes that differ somewhat from the bulk of it) it is a worthy depiction of Wingate, and a more than adequate memorial to the man of genius who did not appear to fulfil his destiny, per Winston Churchill. My fiancée enjoyed the film based on its writing, direction, scenery and inspired acting, so it is not only worth watching to those such as myself who revere Wingate and study him. I recommend it highly.