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Comrades 15 rating

Bill Douglas' epic story of the Tolpuddle Martyrs, six Dorset labourers deported to Australia in the 1830s for forming a trade union.

Historical drama 1987 182 mins

Director: Bill Douglas

CC

Overview

Bill Douglas followed his acclaimed 'trilogy' (My Childhood, My Ain Folk, My Way Home) with this epic story of the Tolpuddle Martyrs, six Dorset labourers deported to Australia in the 1830s for forming a trade union.

Unfolding in the pastoral haze of Dorset and blinding light of Australia, this beautiful film is rich with carefully layered visual illusions and nuances. With moving, profound performances from a magnificent cast – including Alex Norton, Imelda Staunton, Robin Soans, Philip Davis, Vanessa Redgrave, Keith Allen and Barbara Windsor – this is a compelling account of struggle and injustice.

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