User Reviews

Ben Manfred is sent to investigate the strange case of Captain Mannion, who deserted his post for six weeks, and faces a court marshal, Manfred tries to discover why the accused refuses to offer a defence.

This is such an interesting, tense case, I think I'm starting to favour The Manfred episodes, he has such a presence on screen. The idea of an MP behaving in a just manner, and not operating in a self serving manner, it's a nice thought.

Cleverly written, you think you know what's going on, when in reality something completely different is occuring, it's an age old story.

Once again an incredible amount is packed in to such a small running time.

Richard Johnson is almost unrecognisable as Mannion, I had to double check who it was, how voice hasn't quite reached its deep maturity yet.

8/10.

Jack Hawkins gives a flawless performance living up to his title of "Just Man" in this nonpareil episode featuring Richard Johnson.

Johnson is a soldier who's gone AWOL in a British colony currently undergoing troubles with rebels, He puts up no defense and is scheduled for court-martial when Hawkins shows up to find out what's really going on.

The way Hawkins handles each and every situation with a dogged pursuit of the truth, disregarding any personal jeopardy, is amazing, true to heroic tradition. Basil Dearden's direction once again demonstrates how he's among British finest directors, grossly underrated.

Member of Parliament Ben Manfred goes to the outpost of the British empire as he has na interest in the case of Captain Bannion (Richard Johnson.)

He is being court martialed for desertion and consorting with the enemy. Bannion gives no reason as to why he has acted the way he did.

Manfred visits his wife who gives the impression she doesn't care what happens to her husband.

After having been found guilty and imprisoned. Bannion tells Manfred that he is involved in a secret mission at the behest of his superior officer Colonel Parkes (Ronald Howard.) A way to gain the trust of the nationalists.

Manfred fears this is a complex trap set up by Parkes. He is having an affair with Bannion's wife and will see to that Bannion will be killed trying to escape his cell.

A literate story, Manfred even quotes from the old testament. The moral tale about King David and Bathsheba.

Although you would go away thinking that Bannion is bit of an imbecile.