The Last Place on Earth
Scott vs. Amundsen. It wasn't meant to be a race, but race it becomes, as the world awaits news of the first to reach the Pole. What follows is a tale of heroism, foolhardiness, selflessness and self-delusion, in a land where victory must be secondary to survival.
- 1985-1985
- 1 season
- Masterpiece Theatre
- Drama, Documentary
Scott vs. Amundsen. It wasn't meant to be a race, but race it becomes, as the world awaits news of the first to reach the Pole. What follows is a tale of heroism, foolhardiness, selflessness and self-delusion, in a land where victory must be secondary to survival.
Season 1 Episode Guide
7 Episodes 1985
Episode 1
Poles Apart
77 mins
Currently in disfavor, Captain Robert Falcon Scott is an explorer without an expedition. Finding rivalry not only abroad but amongst his peers at home, he is secretly overjoyed when Shackleton's expedition to the South Pole fails spectacularly.
Episode 2
Minor Diversions
52 mins
Preparing for an expedition to the North Pole in defiance of government opposition, Amundsen confides to his brother his secret plans to take the South Pole. This coup would sway public opinion in his direction and sweep away the negative comments of the government hardliners.
Episode 3
Leading Men
51 mins
Scott discovers that Amundsen is also heading for the Pole and the race is on. Friction amongst the crew is growing and the horses are found to be unsuitable but more bad news is yet to come.
Episode 4
Gentlemen & Players
52 mins
The rivalry between the two expeditionary teams increases and they both discover just how harsh and unforgiving Antarctica can be.
Episode 5
The Glories of the Race
51 mins
When the spell of bad weather breaks, Amundsen's team manages to surge ahead, though they have no choice other than to start eating their dogs. Scott reasserts his authority as frustrations cause friction amongst the members of his team.
Episode 6
Foregone Conclusion
52 mins
Scott's team is gradually disintegrating and resentment amongst its members runs high. Scott intends to split his team in two - one travelling onwards to the Pole while the other returns to base.
Episode 7
Rejoice
52 mins
Amundsen has beaten Scott to the Pole and Scott's team is in a bad way - one member of the team has gone mad and died, rations are low and heavy snows are closing in.