Thunder of Silence
| Company type | Television anthology series |
|---|---|
| Industry | Television production |
| Founded | 1959 |
| Headquarters | Sydney , Australia |
| Products | Television drama episodes |
Thunder of Silence is a 1959 installment of the Australian television drama anthology Shell Presents, marking the fourth episode produced in Sydney. This adaptation originates from an American stage play by Stewart Stern, which had previously been staged in the United States featuring actors Paul Newman and Inger Stevens. The episode was broadcast live on 22 August 1959 in Sydney, followed by a taped airing on 28 November 1959 in Melbourne.
Focusing on the theme of immigrant integration, a subject seldom explored in Australian television drama during that era, the story stars John Meillon in the principal role.
Plot
Set in the American Midwest, the narrative follows a middle-aged farmer (John Tate) and his wife (Marion Johns) who provide refuge to a European immigrant and his daughter (both portrayed by Marion Johns). Tensions arise between the farmer and the refugee due to contrasting temperaments, but reconciliation is ultimately achieved through Everett (played by John Meillon), the farmer’s son who has been away.
Cast
- John Meillon as Everett
- Richard Davies
- Marion Johns
- John Tate
- John Llewellyn
- Margo Carrigan
Production
The original play by Stewart Stern was inspired by authentic accounts from Maryland farmers who offered shelter to European refugees. Stern sent a letter from the United States, extending his best wishes to the cast and sharing insights from Paul Newman regarding the portrayal of Everett; this letter was read to the performers prior to filming. Producer Brett Porter attributed significant value to this correspondence, describing the episode as "the finest yet in the series."
Production occurred at ATN-7’s Epping studios, with a recording subsequently dispatched to Stern in America. Porter expressed optimism that presenting this work to individuals such as Stern and Newman would highlight Australian acting capabilities on an international stage.
Margot Carrigan also appeared in another ATN production, Take a Chance.
Reception
A critic from the Sydney Morning Herald characterized the play as sentimental with somewhat simplistic philosophical elements but recognized Meillon’s capacity to infuse energy into a demanding character. Direction by David Cahill received commendation for its smooth and uncluttered approach.
The review published in The Age praised aspects such as musical selection and documentary footage incorporated into the production but noted Meillon’s difficulty with adopting an American accent. The critic also questioned why the narrative had not been localized for an Australian context, although deeming it entertaining overall.
Meillon’s portrayal contributed to his subsequent casting in A Tongue of Silver.