Self-important, over-dramatic, uninspired.

Not even bad in a good way

It's no definitive masterpiece but it's damn close.

Great story, amazing characters, superb action, enthralling cinematography. Yes, this is something I am glad I spent money on.

Based on the book of the same name by Fred J. Thwaites, Lloyd Hughes stars in this romantic drama as a loner, a dejected outcast who wins a regatta and suddenly discovers he has a musical talent. In a sudden burst of self-confidence he sits down and composes a major operatic work which brings him fame and fortune. In such a positive light he has then little trouble in winning back the girl he always loved but lost, during his days of self-indulgent depression.Keen study of the human condition, which was often a feature of Ken G. Hall films. Hall was inarguably Australia's best-loved and premier director during the 30's and 40's and this movie was quite popular on its release. George Heath was responsible for the cinematography which was notably good here. It was distributed in Britain and Europe under the alternate title of THE VAGABOND VIOLINIST.Trivia buffs will be staggered to see the name of Gough Whitlam in the credits. Just 21 at the time, Whitlam became Prime Minister of Australia from 1972 to 1975. He appears as a man in the Nightclub scene. It was to be 37 years before he made another screen appearance - as himself this time, in 1974's BARRY MCKENZIE HOLDS HIS OWN.