Watch Who Pays the Ferryman?

Who Pays the Ferryman? is a 1977 BBC television series set in Crete, Greece. The show stars Jack Hedley as Alan Haldane, a British intelligence officer who returns to Crete after serving in World War II. Haldane is haunted by the loss of his wife during the war and is looking for a new purpose in life.

The show follows Haldane as he wanders through the island, trying to find a sense of belonging. He meets and befriends many of the locals, including beautiful Greek woman Annika (Lalla Ward). However, his renewed sense of purpose is sparked when he stumbles upon an old army buddy, David Coombes (Neil McCarthy), who has become involved in diamond smuggling on the island.

Haldane is torn between his loyalty to his friend and his duty to his country. The series takes on a number of complicated themes, including the after-effects of war, the nature of loyalty, and the presence of crime in a small town.

The show's setting is a beautiful and romanticized version of Crete, with the bright blue waters of the Mediterranean in the background and the stunning architecture of the island’s historic buildings. The show’s cinematography is beautifully done, capturing the beauty and lyricism of the Greek landscape.

One of the standout performances of the series comes from Takis Emmanuel as Andreas, the wise and kind-hearted ferryman of the title. He guides Haldane through the island, offering him advice and comfort as he tries to make sense of his new life. Emmanuel's performance is one of the most memorable in the series, and his interactions with Haldane are some of the show's most poignant moments.

The show's use of music is also noteworthy. The score is a blend of traditional Greek music and more modern pieces that help to create an immersive and enchanting atmosphere. The show's opening theme is particularly memorable and sets the tone for the series perfectly.

While the show is largely a character study and a meditation on the themes of loss, community, and loyalty, it also contains plenty of action and suspense. As Haldane navigates the complex world of diamond smuggling, he finds himself in a number of dangerous situations. There are plenty of exciting chase scenes, gunfights, and tense standoffs throughout the series, making it a thrilling watch.

Overall, Who Pays the Ferryman? is a beautifully crafted and emotionally resonant series that expertly blends action and character study. Its themes of loss, loyalty, and community are as relevant today as they were over four decades ago, and its portrayal of a romanticized Greece is sure to enchant viewers. With fantastic performances and expert filmmaking, it stands as a true classic of British television.