The Teeth of the Wind

The Teeth of the Wind

Company type	Television drama
Industry	Television broadcasting
Founded	1962
Founder	John Cameron
Headquarters	Melbourne , Australia
Parent	Australian Broadcasting Corporation

The Teeth of the Wind is a television drama broadcast in 1962 by the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. Crafted by John Cameron, who also authored Outpost (1959) which aired on American TV, this production was overseen by Christopher Muir and filmed in Melbourne. The storyline unfolds in Africa, delving into regional political conflicts.

Plot

Set within the recently independent African nation of Zambotu, a United Nations contingent safeguards the democratically elected president Ngimba and vice president Kurobe, commanded by Australian officer Frank Andrews. Ngimba, educated in England and chosen through democratic processes, encounters resistance from settlers who support Kurobe.

Andrews establishes connections with Dr. Pearson and African specialists Kurt Ludescher and Mary Ward, deepening his understanding of the intricate political dynamics. Mining magnate Peter Vender, who opposes local autonomy and backs Kurobe, stands in contrast to Pearson’s perspective that Ngimba enjoys popular backing.

Following Kurobe’s release, Andrews is tasked with detaining Ngimba amid rising unrest. When Ngimba’s followers advance on the presidential residence, Andrews considers ordering his forces to fire but ultimately refrains, permitting locals to assume control. The violence that follows leads to casualties among women.

Cast

• Alan Hopgood portraying Frank Andrews
• Roly Barlee as Kandaro
• Keith Eden as President Ngimba
• Joan Harris in the role of Doctor Pearson
• Kurt Ludescher playing Peter Vender
• Mary Ward as Mary Vender

Production

The Teeth of the Wind was one of six Australian dramas produced by ABC in 1962, alongside titles such as Boy Round the Corner, The House of Mancello, Funnel Web, The Hobby Horse, and Jenny.

Following his success with Outpost, John Cameron wrote this play inspired by Dr Ivan Smith’s experiences—an Australian who served as Chief United Nations representative during the 1961 Congo Crisis and survived mob attacks. Cameron’s intention was to highlight the personal aspects of conflict rather than focusing on ideological or racial divisions, emphasizing individuals caught amid competing claims during crises. The story is set "somewhere in Africa," portraying cultural tensions within a military context where decisions could provoke court martial yet also evoke empathy for involved officers.

Reception

The Bulletin critiqued the production for lacking a definitive dramatic or factual impact, drawing unfavorable comparisons with Blue Hills (radio serial) and pointing out a less nuanced handling of complex issues than Gwen Meredith’s work.