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For the Term of His Natural Life Season 1

3 Episodes Drama, Crime

A classic miniseries based on Marcus Clarke's tale of Australia's infamous convict past.

Justice will not be held prisoner! Marcus Clarke’s epic novel of the horrors and degradation of the Australian penal system is one of the great classics of Australian literature and the subject of this classic 3 part mini-series.

Disinherited and driven from his home in England when he discovers the secret of his true parentage, young Richard Devine (Colin Friels, Malcolm) changes his name to Rufus Dawes but is then falsely accused of murdering his real father. Transported to the notorious Port Arthur in Van Diemen’s land “for the term of his natural life”, Dawes is gradually transformed from the bright and witty young Englishman into a hardened and desperate convict. He is unafraid to attempt the most daring escapes or brutal clashes with fellow prisoners and his jailers-including the cruel Lt. Maurice Frere (Rod Mullinar, Patrick) or the troubled Reverend North (Anthony Perkins, Psycho). “Dawes’” last hope for vindication is his passion for Sylvia (Penelope Stewart), daughter of prison Commandant, Major Vickers (Patrick Macnee, The Avengers). That hope is put to the ultimate challenge by her own dark secrets.

Cast

Anthony Perkins (Rev James North) , Patrick Macnee (Major Vickers) , Samantha Eggar (Mrs. Vickers) , Colin Friels (Rufus Dawes)

Director

Rob Stewrt

Episodes

Part 1

1h 33m

The first instalment in this classic Australian tale based on Marcus Clarke’s epic novel.

Part 2

1h 24m

The second instalment in this classic Australian tale based on Marcus Clarke’s epic novel.

Part 3

1h 51m

The final instalment in this classic Australian tale based on Marcus Clarke’s epic novel.