Shackleton's Captain

Sir Ernest Shackleton is a name synonymous with Antarctic exploration, with his most famous — and disastrous — expedition being that of 1914-1917, on board the ship Endurance. Perhaps lesser known is the captain of Endurance; an Akaroa-born Kiwi named Frank Arthur Worsely. Shackleton's Captain (based on John Thomson's book of the same name) uses expert interviews, archival footage and dramatised scenes to show Worsley's  vital role in the crew's survival. Directed by renowned documentarian Leanne Pooley, the TV film was a co-production between Kiwi and German companies. Craig Parker plays Worsely.

Growing up as a colonial boy, the freedom I enjoyed instilled in me a love of adventure that would shape my destiny.

– Frank Worsely (Craig Parker), at the start of this TV movie

Key Cast & Crew

Craig Parker

As: Frank Worsley

Tim Woodhouse

Editor, Writer

Charles Pierard

As: Ernest Shackleton

James Heyward

Producer, Writer

Simon Baumfield

Cinematographer

Leanne Pooley

Director, Writer