Blasphemy at the Old Bailey
1977, English. Directed by Hugh David.
In 1977 the Old Bailey saw the start of the first trial for blasphemy in this country for over half a century. Begun by Mary Whitehouse against the homosexual newspaper Gay News, it ended in a conviction, heavy fines and a suspended prison sentence for the editor. An appeal is pending. Was this prosecution an attack on free speech? Or was it a necessary defence of the principle that, even in a permissive society, some things must remain sacred? This dramatised documentary reconstructs the crucial moments of this historic trial, and explores the issues it raises. Peter France questions the people on both sides, including Mary Whitehouse and Denis Lemon, Editor, Gay News, about their actions and reactions during the case.
- Runtime
- 1h 13m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- English
- Rated
- Check local
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Where to watch Blasphemy at the Old Bailey
Blasphemy at the Old Bailey isn’t streaming on any OTT platform in India yet; it released on 18 September 1977.
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Cast & crew
- Hugh DavidDirector
- Donald EcclesHis Honour Judge King-Hamilton, QC
- Norman RodwayJohn Mortimer, QC
- Terrence HardimanJohn Smyth
- Gareth ThomasG. Robertson
- Norman RutherfordClerk of the Court
- John BeardmoreCourt Usher
- Chris SandersForeman of the Jury
- Peter MachinDenis Lemon
- Peter FranceSelf
- Denis LemonSelf
- Mary WhitehouseSelf
- Bella EmbergJuror (uncredited)
Details
- Released
- 18 September 1977
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News & fan talk
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Blasphemy at the Old Bailey: quick answers
Is Blasphemy at the Old Bailey worth watching?
Blasphemy at the Old Bailey doesn’t have enough ratings for a verdict yet.
How long is Blasphemy at the Old Bailey?
Blasphemy at the Old Bailey runs 73 minutes (1h 13m).
Does Blasphemy at the Old Bailey have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for Blasphemy at the Old Bailey. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
Blasphemy at the Old Bailey parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
No age rating is listed for Blasphemy at the Old Bailey yet.
Which OTT platform is Blasphemy at the Old Bailey on?
Blasphemy at the Old Bailey isn’t streaming on any OTT platform in India yet; it released on 18 September 1977. (Checked 11 November 2026.)
What movies are like Blasphemy at the Old Bailey?
If you liked Blasphemy at the Old Bailey, try Inherit the Wind, Just Mercy, The Rainmaker.
Who directed Blasphemy at the Old Bailey?
Blasphemy at the Old Bailey (1977) was directed by Hugh David and stars Donald Eccles, Norman Rodway, Terrence Hardiman.