Treasure Island (1977) [DVD]

I've waited 40 years for this. I'd encourage all fans of veteran British actors to take this opportunity to see what is, in general, a very good example of British 'Tea Time' 1970s family drama. Editing is often faster and more cinematic than is often the case with these sometimes studio bound productions. Why the missing star? Well Jim Hawkins takes a bit of getting used to. There is no doubting the acting ability of Ashley Knight here, but the rather spotty, 'nerdy' interpretation is some way from Stevenson's resourceful youngster. However, this does at least give the character a reason for 'proving himself' by his daring actions on behalf of the good guys. There is an extended plot line in episode 1 in which Jim's father, (often left out of adaptations) cooks up a plot with Billy Bones to get to treasure Island before the Pirates, This slows up the action rather, and stops us 'getting to sea'. The main change from the book is the fact that Silver is revealed as a criminal mastermind from the outset rather than being found out by Jim once the voyage is underway. However, this does give Silver a lot more exposure, which is an asset, as Alfred Burke is, to my mind, the best Long John Silver on screen bar none. He fits Stevenson's description (apart from the beard) exactly and has a wonderful line in feigned jocularity which makes him utterly convincing as a con man. This is a performance which stands out from the rest. There is a solid supporting cast. Jack Watson is ideal as Billy Bones and Livesey and Trelawney make a good team. Overall highly recommended for those who already know they like this kind of BBC drama and a must for Treasure Island fans.

I had a very vivid memory of seeing this on TV in 1977 as a child (when I was 8 years old) mainly on account of the superbly catchy musical rendition of "yo ho ho and a bottle of rum". I was pleased to see that it was finally availabe on DVD, and it was a revelation to view: Far slicker than most BBC television of this period it is an incredial authentic and atmospheric production of the book, and in my opinion, the definitive version: The period detail and costumes are fantastic and it has an all star cast of 1970s actor luminaries. Alfred Burke (most famous for the title role) in Public Eye almost completely steals the show, with an astonishing performance as Long John Silver: charming, changeable and dangerous, an absolute pitch perfect embodiment of the ambiguous "anti-hero" of the book. The fight sequences and violence, whilst suitable for kids, are staged and directed expertly to provide the right level of excitement throughout. What shouldn't be underestimated is John Lucarotti's script: the pirate idiom is difficult to follow at times, but the effect only draws you into the story, and by the conclusion I wanted to see further adventures of Silver. The supporting cast are all top notch and there are also touching moments. Whilst the production has the hallmarks of TV at this time: studio interiors and film location work, I was really bowled over at the high standard of this piece. If you don't think you like period drama, particularly of this televisual vintage, I would really recommend that if you give one such serial a go, it is this one. An adaptation of a great work of BrIrish literature made with love and care, and of a super standard. A television classic. Too good to be wasted on kids!

Nothing wrong with the DVD. Series plays just fine and the contents are fun but nothing special. Portrayal of Treasure Island itself would be ☆☆☆ (3) out of 5 stars probably, as there weren't many interactions I considered noteworthy. It doesn't do anything better than other versions but still a fun watch.

At long last this version of Treasure Island is now available on DVD,i am no expert but the transfer seems perfect and there is no cuts that I noticed also there are subtitles a great help for those of us around to see the first airing all those years ago.Jack Watson and Alfred Burke were the best ever Bones and Silver their performances along with the others keep the story dark enough to interest the adults and the children hooked,ideal family entertainment for those long dark Sunday afternoons winter brings.A big thank you to whoever it was who organized the transfer to DVD.

I didn't remember seeing this series when first broadcast but five minutes into the first episode it came back to me.Great BBC family entertainment from the 1970's. Wonderful cast of British character actors. Alfred Burke stands out in an atypical role. Slower paced than today's TV but then life back then was more relaxed. My kids enjoyed it and were humming the theme tune for days afterwards.

Wonderful vintage TV! Fast and safe delivery!

Still the definitive dramatisation of Stevenson's best-known classic, with perfect casting in every role and the best interpretation of Silver's multi-layered character, by turns monstrous and ingratiating, ever seen on screen. If you only ever see one 'Treasure Island', make it this one!

Not to sure if I remembered this or not, not the best version I have seen, adapted for tv so well drawn out to make a seriesNot bad