Desperate Crossing: The Untold Story of the Mayflower Directed by Lisa Wolfinger, 2007

From their self-imposed exile in Holland and perilous Atlantic crossing in the Mayflower to unimaginable hardships encountered in their new land, this is the definitive story of the Pilgrims and how they came to live — and ultimately prosper — in the harsh climate of an unfamiliar world.

In the autumn of 1620, over one hundred English Separatists and a crew of sailors huddled together in the small hold of the Mayflower as it battled through fierce storms and struggled across the unforgiving seas of the North Atlantic. Upon finally reaching land, every day was fraught with perils dangerous weather, disease, malnourishment, and finally the difficulty of trying to reach an understanding with the Native Americans.

Filmed on location in Europe and Plymouth Plantation and featuring dialogue taken from original source material, DESPERATE CROSSING: THE UNTOLD STORY OF THE MAYFLOWER catapults viewers back to the 1600s. Actors from the Royal Shakespeare Company join members of the Massachusetts Wampanoag tribe in creating dramatic period reenactments that bring to life the Pilgrims’ harrowing journey and first year of survival.

Bonus Features

Behind-the-Scenes Featurette; Outtakes

Awards:

2007 Emmy Awards: Outstanding Art Direction for a Variety, Music of Nonfiction Programming Nomination & Outstanding Makeup for a Miniseries, Movie or Special Nomination;