Channel Four
1 x 60 mins
Pitcairn - a little slice of paradise. The tiny island settled by Fletcher Christian and the other mutineers from HMS Bounty.
But in 2004 the British Pacific colony of Pitcairn - population 47 - won a notoriety that eclipsed its romantic past. A five year police investigation revealed a long history of shocking child sex abuse. The island was at the centre of world press attention - except that it's almost impossible to get there (the rocky island has no run-way, no roads no cars, no TV). The trial of the accused men - held in the village hall - divided opinion. How can the standards of normal life be applied to such a bizarre, remote community? But then again why should the daughters of the islanders not be protected? This remarkable film is a one-off. No other TV crew or journalists were allowed on the island. The twist is extraordinary. The men are jailed in a prison they must themselves build.
'A documentary gem.' - The Observer
'This intelligently balanced film leaves interpretation open without providing pat conclusions.' - Daily Mail
'A fascinating insight into a closed, remote society.' - The Daily Telegpraph
A preview of Pitcairn: Trouble In Paradise