Blasphemy at the Old Bailey (1977)
In 1977 the Old Bailey saw the start of the first trial for blasphemy in this country for over half a century. Begun by Mary Whitehouse against the homosexual newspaper Gay News, it ended in a conviction, heavy fines and a suspended prison sentence for the editor. An appeal is pending. Was this prosecution an attack on free speech? Or was it a necessary defence of the principle that, even in a permissive society, some things must remain sacred? This dramatised documentary reconstructs the crucial moments of this historic trial, and explores the issues it raises. Peter France questions the people on both sides, including Mary Whitehouse and Denis Lemon, Editor, Gay News, about their actions and reactions during the case.
Director: Hugh David
Runtime: 73 min
Release Date: September 18, 1977
Cast
- Donald Eccles - His Honour Judge King-Hamilton, QC
- Norman Rodway - John Mortimer, QC
- Terrence Hardiman - John Smyth
- Gareth Thomas - G. Robertson
- Norman Rutherford - Clerk of the Court
- John Beardmore - Court Usher
- Chris Sanders - Foreman of the Jury
- Peter Machin - Denis Lemon
- Peter France - Self
- Denis Lemon - Self
Language: English
Original Language: en
More Films by Director: Hugh David
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Blasphemy at the Old Bailey about?
- In 1977 the Old Bailey saw the start of the first trial for blasphemy in this country for over half a century. Begun by Mary Whitehouse against the homosexual newspaper Gay News, it ended in a conviction, heavy fines and a suspended prison sentence for the editor. An appeal is pending. Was this prosecution an attack on free speech? Or was it a necessary defence of the principle that, even in a permissive society, some things must remain sacred? This dramatised documentary reconstructs the crucial moments of this historic trial, and explores the issues it raises. Peter France questions the people on both sides, including Mary Whitehouse and Denis Lemon, Editor, Gay News, about their actions and reactions during the case.
- Who directed Blasphemy at the Old Bailey?
- Blasphemy at the Old Bailey was directed by Hugh David.
- Who stars in Blasphemy at the Old Bailey?
- Blasphemy at the Old Bailey stars Donald Eccles, Norman Rodway, Terrence Hardiman, Gareth Thomas, Norman Rutherford, John Beardmore.
- How long is Blasphemy at the Old Bailey?
- Blasphemy at the Old Bailey has a runtime of 1h 13m (73 minutes).