Mayflower: The Pilgrims' Adventure (1979)

From our early school days, we may remember the basics of the Puritans' story of first coming to America. "Mayflower: The Pilgrims' Adventure" brings their story to life. A 41 year old Anthony Hopkins is excellent as Mayflower Captain Christopher Jones. Richard Crenna at 52 is a very believable and appealing Reverend William Brewster. Great supporting cast. Excellent costuming and believable performances all around.

Pleasingly simple in its approach and production, this film focuses on the story of the pilgrims and their difficult crossing. The other familiar characters are here – John Alden and Priscilla Mullens, Captain Myles Standish and the cynical, crusty sailors who don't like the Bible-thumping passengers. In the end, all aboard seemed changed by the epic journey.

However missing without explanation are two key figures - John Carver and William Bradford. Bradford was one of the most important Separatists and served for many years as Plymouth Colony's governor.

There were earlier English colonies but THIS trip of the Pilgrims in 1620 and the colony they started in Massachusetts (not part of the film) was the foundation on which the United States was built.

The politics, the devout, God-fearing religious values and the faith of these early settlers are all well-portrayed. A highly worthwhile film for anyone who wants to get a better sense of what the Pilgrims adventure was all about. Great for viewing in November around Thanksgiving and essential viewing before any trip to Plymouth, Mass.

FOOTNOTE: Five years later, Hopkins would star as William Bligh - another sea captain in the 1984 film - "The Bounty".