CLARKSON

A 40 minute video drama based on real 18th Century events mainly in Bristol written by a group of the Society’s members.

THE STORY IS LARGELY A CHARACTER STUDY consisting of dialogue sequences interspersed with some short action sequences. It tells the story of an unsung hero in the fight to abolish slave trading and is set in Bristol in 1787.

Although Wilberforce has won public acclaim for finally outlawing the trade, it was Thomas Clarkson who provided him with much of the data that he used to back up the cause. The film is one of contrast: between the pious young divinity student, straight out of University, and the bawdy taverns and rough slave port where he conducted his fact-finding. Clarkson 'grows up' as the film develops: he acquires street wisdom and finally realises the most effective way to win the crusade.

CLICK to see trailer.
2 minutes 30 seconds

CLICK to read article, 'The Making of Clarkson'
by Director, Graham Egarr.

CLICK to read article, ‘Creating an Illusion’
by Art Director, Mike George.

CLICK for printer-friendly historical notes.
MSWord document. 11 pages.