Whistle Down the Wind is a British drama film released in 1961, directed by Bryan Forbes and starring Hayley Mills. The film is set in rural Lancashire and tells the story of three children who find a fugitive hiding in their barn and mistake him for Jesus Christ.
The film was based on a novel of the same name by Mary Hayley Bell, who was Hayley Mills’ mother. It was produced by Richard Attenborough’s production company, and featured a cast of British and international actors, including Alan Bates and Bernard Lee.
Whistle Down the Wind was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and was praised for its sensitive portrayal of childhood innocence and its exploration of faith and belief. It also featured a memorable score by composer Malcolm Arnold, which included the hit song “No Matter What,” performed by Mills’ co-star, Keith Barron.
The film was shot on location in Lancashire, with several key scenes filmed in the village of Downham. The village’s picturesque surroundings and historic buildings provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s rural setting, and helped to create a sense of timelessness and nostalgia.
The making of the film was not without its challenges, however. The production was initially delayed due to difficulties in finding a suitable child actor to play the lead role, and there were concerns about the controversial nature of the film’s subject matter.
Despite these challenges, Whistle Down the Wind remains a beloved classic of British cinema, and its portrayal of childhood innocence and faith continues to resonate with audiences today. The film has also been adapted into a stage musical, which has been performed around the world.
Kathy Bostock
Hayley Mills
Mr Bostock
Bernard Lee
The Man (Arthur Blakey)
Alan Bates
Eddie
Norman Bird
Auntie Dorothy
Elsie Wagstaff
Charles Bostock
Alan Barnes
Nan Bostock
Diane Holgate
Wilcox
Gerald Sim
Sunday School Teacher
Diane Clare
Salvation Army Girl
Patricia Heneghan
Vicar
Hamilton Dyce
Vet
Howard Douglas
Superintendent Teesdale
John Arnatt
PC Thurstow
Ronald Hines
Director
Bryan Forbes