The Bastard

1978 • Drama, History, TV Movie, War

Phillipe Charboneau is the illegitimate son of an English duke. When he travels from France to England to claim his inheritance, he incurs the wrath of his father's family and is forced to flee to America, where he becomes involved in the events leading to the American Revolution. (Episodes 1 and 2 of the Kent Chronicles miniseries.)

Runtime: 4h

Dive into the rich tapestry of early American history with John Jakes' enthralling novel, 'The Bastard.' The book delves deeper than the movie adaptation, offering readers an immersive experience filled with detailed accounts of the Revolutionary era. Jakes masterfully weaves historical events with the fictional journey of Philip Kent, a young man caught in the turmoil of a nascent nation. While the movie provides an entertaining visual narrative, it cannot fully capture the intricate storytelling and character development found in the book. 'The Bastard' presents a vivid portrayal of its time, embracing the complexities of allegiance, love, and identity in a changing world. By reading the novel, you are invited to explore the inner lives of its characters and the detailed backdrop of Revolutionary America, all crafted with Jakes' signature style. The journey promises more depth and engagement than what's delivered on-screen.