Billy Budd
Synopsis
John Dexter’s brilliant production of Britten’s searing opera stars Dwayne Croft in the title role of the handsome young sailor whose kindness and innocence cause his downfall. The great James Morris is Claggart, master-at-arms on the 18th-century warship Indomitable, who falsely accuses Billy of inciting a mutiny. Philip Langridge sings Captain Vere, the honest commander who knows that Billy is innocent but finds himself unable to save him. Steuart Bedford, Britten’s close collaborator during the last years of the composer’s life, is on the podium.
Top Cast
Explore Star Directory →
Release History & Theatrical Window
March 11, 1997
Wide Cinema Exhibition
Key Information & Fast Facts
- Director
- John Dexter
- Screenplay & Story
- Eric Crozier, E.M. Forster, Herman Melville
- Original Title
- Billy Budd
- Spoken Languages
- English
- Runtime
- Unknown
Creative Leadership & Key Crew
John Dexter
Eric Crozier, E.M. Forster, Herman Melville
Department Leadership Roster
Eric Crozier
Writer
E.M. Forster
Writer
John Dexter
Director
Production Stills & Gallery
Official cinematic photography and background stills for Billy Budd.
Featured In Curated Collections
Editorial lists, community rankings, and cinematic collections featuring Billy Budd.
list13
Similar Titles to Billy Budd
Movies sharing stylistic DNA, tone, and thematic storytelling
10.0
7.0
5.0
8.0
9.0
More Like Billy Budd
Recommended titles matching themes, cast, and genres.
Frequently Asked Questions About Billy Budd
Quick factual answers about cast, synopsis, director, box office, and release information.
What is Billy Budd about?
John Dexter’s brilliant production of Britten’s searing opera stars Dwayne Croft in the title role of the handsome young sailor whose kindness and innocence cause his downfall. The great James Morris is Claggart, master-at-arms on the 18th-century warship Indomitable, who falsely accuses Billy of inciting a mutiny. Philip Langridge sings Captain Vere, the honest commander who knows that Billy is innocent but finds himself unable to save him. Steuart Bedford, Britten’s close collaborator during the last years of the composer’s life, is on the podium.
Who directed Billy Budd?
Billy Budd was directed by John Dexter.
Who stars in Billy Budd?
The principal cast of Billy Budd includes Philip Langridge, Dwayne Croft, James Morris, Julien Robbins, Anthony Dean Griffey.
When was Billy Budd released and how long is it?
Billy Budd was released in 1997 with a total runtime of Unknown.