Based on a novel by Charles Nordhoff and James Norman Hall, the authors of the similar Mutiny on the Bounty, Farrow’s colourful costume drama tells the dramatic story about a 1787 convict ship sailing from London bound for New South Wales in Australia (…) Alan Ladd recalled: ‘I’m a hell of a hero in this picture. I kill nine guys and duel and talk, and talk and talk, and make love all over the place. Don’t miss me. I’m very big.’ Mason said his portrayal of the sadistic ship’s captain was based on director Farrow. — Derek Winnert