Ep 2. The Master of Ballantrae
- January 31, 1984
The Master of Ballantrae is the second episode of Hallmark Hall of Fame's thirty-third season. Based on the classic novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, this epic period piece follows the lives of two Scottish brothers, James and Henry Durie, as they confront each other for their family's estate and fortune.
Set in the mid-18th century, the story begins with the departure of the Durie brothers from their ancestral home after the failed uprising of the Scottish Jacobites against the British Crown. James, the elder brother, is presumed dead after being captured by the British army, leaving Henry as the sole inheritor of the Ballantrae estate, much to the irritation of his wife Alison, who despises her husband's timid nature and his lack of ambition.
However, James is not dead, and he eventually returns to Scotland after years of wandering through Europe and America with a new identity and a daring attitude. He quickly claims his rightful place in Ballantrae, and he establishes himself as a charismatic leader among the disenchanted Scottish people, who admire his bravery and his outspoken criticisms of the British oppression.
As the two brothers face off for the family's legacy, their rivalry becomes increasingly bitter and violent, fueled by their love for Alison, who becomes the woman at the center of their conflict. Meanwhile, James's shadowy past comes back to haunt him, as his association with notorious pirates and his rumored involvement in secret missions against the British make him a wanted man by both the Crown and the rebels.
The Master of Ballantrae is a tense drama filled with intrigue, romance, and action, featuring a talented cast that includes Richard Thomas (The Waltons) as James, Michael York (Cabaret) as Henry, and Finola Hughes (General Hospital) as Alison. The film also boasts impressive costumes and stunning locations, capturing the beauty and ruggedness of the Scottish landscape and the turbulence of its history.
As with all Hallmark Hall of Fame productions, The Master of Ballantrae is a high-quality, family-friendly program that showcases the best of dramatic storytelling with compelling characters and timeless themes of loyalty, honor, and sacrifice. Whether you're a fan of classic literature, historical dramas, or simply the art of great storytelling, this episode is not to be missed.
