For me, the strength of this film is in the accuracy of the racing details, the costumes and the culture of the time. The racing scenes, shot on Epsom Downs recreate the Derby's of 1881 and 1885, and have been thoroughly researched, even the jockeys used for Fred Archer and Fred Webb show an amazing likeness. Also, the scenes in the streets, on the racecourse and in the public house are totally believable.
This is a film made by those who love and cherish the subject. Although to my knowledge, having worked at Racing Post for many years and, written the history of the Derby, very few people today know of the this film. Strangely, a few years ago, I awoke at 4 am, unable to sleep, to find the film just starting and have never seen it since! However, this film has much to offer - a Victorian romance, the struggle of conscious, excitement and, a ripping gambling yarn.
Michael Church.
This is a film made by those who love and cherish the subject. Although to my knowledge, having worked at Racing Post for many years and, written the history of the Derby, very few people today know of the this film. Strangely, a few years ago, I awoke at 4 am, unable to sleep, to find the film just starting and have never seen it since! However, this film has much to offer - a Victorian romance, the struggle of conscious, excitement and, a ripping gambling yarn.
Michael Church.