The Last Voyage Of Sir Francis Drake
BBC, 1996
This superb BBC documentary was screened to commemorate the 400th anniversary of Drake's death. The programme is well researched, well scripted and beautifully crafted. Filmed entirely on location, the story of the 1596 voyage is told at the spot where each event happened. The voyage is analysed and assessed and comments are made by two leading authorities on Sir Francis: Dr. John Sugden and Fernando Amistrado. Sugden manages to be both erudite and witty. Amistrado is the Spanish expert on 16th century maritime affairs. He presents the Spanish point of view. Other contributors include historians from Panama and Colombia, augmented by local people. I think this is my favourite film. It deserves to be more widely known and broadcast. Sky History Channel has helped to this end. I use it extensively in school and never fail to enjoy it!
