S3.E27

Billy Budd

Name: Billy Budd
Genre: Drama
Released: 1955-04-26
Duration: 1 h
Rating: 7.5
Cast: William Shatner, Basil Rathbone, Patrick Macnee

Episode aired Apr 26, 1955
1h

IMDb RATING

7.5/10

YOUR RATING

Drama

Set in the year 1783 aboard H.M.S. Indomitable, then at war with the French, an innocent young sailor is hung from the ship's mast as a result of violence and corruption among the crew.Set in the year 1783 aboard H.M.S. Indomitable, then at war with the French, an innocent young sailor is hung from the ship's mast as a result of violence and corruption among the crew.Set in the year 1783 aboard H.M.S. Indomitable, then at war with the French, an innocent young sailor is hung from the ship's mast as a result of violence and corruption among the crew.

See production info at IMDbPro

IMDb RATING

7.5/10

YOUR RATING

2User reviews

See production info at IMDbPro

Trivia
In a 2004 interview, William Shatner recalled that this live production got off to a shaky start when star Basil Rathbone got his foot caught in a bucket and was unable to deliver his first few lines.

Connections
Version of Schlitz Playhouse: Billy Budd (1952)

User reviews2

Review

Featured review

8/10

Unexpectedly good

Young William Shatner surprised me with the poignancy of his performance as the unfortunate Billy Budd. He was only in his early 20s. Easy to see why he was frequently cast in various roles during this time in his career. His versatility is undeniable and in this role, he underplays nicely as befits the Bully character. His accent is reasonably convincing and conveys his character's intensity and innocence. I had to get past his blonde wig which I didn't think suited him but superficial details aside, this was a well told story.

Of course Shatner was beautifully supported by Basil Rathbone and Patrick MacNee in mature, well nuanced performances. This compact and efficient portrayal of the Herman Melville classic is worth viewing. Thanks to GM theatre for filming these great stories. The print I saw was not great quality but I didn't once consider turning it off.