Daniel Defoe

In this retelling of the classic story, Aiden Quinn is the shipwrecked Robinson Crusoe, but in this version he is an unrepentant slave trader, and rather than Friday, he must deal with several black natives on the desert island. Ultimately, he learns the error of his racist ways.

Robinson Crusoe is marooned on a beautiful South Seas island with Man Friday. Crusoe declares himself 'master', and throws Friday into a cave when he rebels. Friday manages to escape and leaves Crusoe alone to fend for himself. But Crusoe soon discovers he needs Friday's companionship and welcomes him back with open arms. When a slave ship comes to the island, Friday convinces Crusoe that it puts them both in peril. In a violent battle, Crusoe and Friday defeat the slavers and kill the captain and his mate. Yet they both end up stranded on the island. After much difficulty, they finally build a seaworthy raft and sail to Friday's island. Crusoe seeks to join Friday's community, but they cannot accept him or his standards. Unable to adapt, he is destined to live out his life isolated and alone, which inevitably leads to a tragic end.

Aidan Quinn plays the eponymous shipwreck victim in this visually stunning adaptation of the classic legend that casts the stranded Crusoe as a slave trader in the late 19th century who must learn to survive on his own on an uncharted island. But Crusoe eventually discovers natives on the island, and, as he gradually forms a bond with one of them, he learns some important lessons about himself and the nature of humanity.

An exciting and insightful re-telling of the classic legend. This historically faithful drama challenges the morals of the time as Crusoe, now an American slave trader, confronts a "Friday" who is his equal. Renowned cinematographer Caleb Deschanel directs in visually spectacular style.