
TV Show spotlight
A Horseman Riding By
A Horseman Riding By is a 13-part BBC television serial produced by Ken Riddington, and adapted by Arden Winch, Alexander Baron, and John Wiles from R.F. Delderfield's 1966-68 historical novel series of the same name. Having been invalided out of the Boer War, Paul Craddock buys Shallowford, a manor house and estate in Devon, with money from his late father's scrapyard business. He soon becomes a much-respected 'Squire' determined to treat all his tenant farmers fairly, unlike his predecessor.
Insights
Plot Summary
Set in Australia between 1890 and the First World War, this miniseries follows the life of a fiercely ambitious pastoralist. He rises from humble beginnings to become one of the most powerful landowners in the country, grappling with drought, economic hardship, and his own complex relationships. His relentless pursuit of success shapes not only his own destiny but also the lives of those around him.
Critical Reception
As a television mini-series from 1978, specific critical reception details are sparse. However, it is generally remembered as a solid historical drama that captured the harsh realities and ambitions of early Australian colonial life. Its portrayal of the period and character development was often praised.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its historical setting and depiction of Australian pioneering spirit.
Gareth Thomas's performance as the ambitious protagonist was a notable highlight.
Some found the pacing to be slow, typical of some historical dramas of the era.
Google audience: Audience reception information for this 1978 mini-series is not readily available through standard Google user review aggregations. General sentiment from available sources indicates appreciation for its historical context and character-driven narrative.
Fun Fact
The novel 'A Horseman Riding By' by R.B. (Nevil) Shute, upon which this series is based, was published in 1961 and is considered one of his most popular works.
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