Lost and Found: The Story of Cook's Anchor

While in Tahiti to scout for locations for a film (ultimately unrealised) on the mutiny of the HMS Bounty, legendary British director David Lean (Lawrence of Arabia, Dr Zhivago) became fascinated by a lost anchor jettisoned by Captain Cook in 1773. Produced for New Zealand’s South Pacific Television, this film follows the anchor’s discovery — by River Kwai bridge exploder Eddie Fowlie — and salvage. A rare 'documentary' credit for Lean, the film was written by his regular scripting collaborator Robert Bolt; Kiwi Kelly Tarlton provides expert dive guidance.

I’m bloody sure it’s Cook’s!

– Diver Kelly Tarlton, on the sea floor, while investigating the veracity of the anchor

Key Cast & Crew

Wayne Tourell

Producer

Lynton Diggle

Underwater Camera

David Lean

Narrator, Director, Writer

George Andrews

Producer

Robert Bolt

Writer, Subject

Ken Dorman

Camera