"Courage, New Hampshire," Episode 4: Ambition

Posted by Elaine Marie Cooper

Watching Episode 4 of Courage, New Hampshire confirmed my suspicions: This series just keeps getting better.

James Patrick Riley

In this installment entitled “Ambition,” the characters keep transforming and growing along with the intensity of the plot. It is well written, insightful and filled with facts of Early American history that I fact-checked out of curiosity. I needn’t have bothered. Writer and series creator James Patrick Riley has done his homework and his accurate dramatization shines.

At the start of Episode 4, we are brought back to where Episode 3 ended, with a bumbling and devious Reverend Silence Laud trying to explain his attempted assault on a young woman. She happens to be the niece of justice of the peace, Silas Rhodes (James Patrick Riley). There are too many witnesses to the pastor’s unseemly behavior for him to get away with the crime. But before the lustful wolf can receive punishment, Laud (brilliantly played by Donal Thoms-Cappello) shrewdly taunts representatives of the law in Courage. Laud knows full well that his connections with Governor Wentworth (and thus with the King of England) place him in a position of power that causes uncertainty in the men attempting to carry out justice. Although the Americans are preparing for an insurgency in the colonies, each step along the way to all-out rebellion is fraught with indecision and concern. They have more than their own lives at stake, as the safety of their families weighs heavily on them. They know all too well that what the reverend has viciously reminded them is true: The crown can bring the entire British Army and Navy against the colonies. The citizens would be at the king’s mercy.

In the meantime, lawyer Abraham Foxe (Allen Marsh) continues to straddle the fence on the issue of revolution vs. loyalty to the king. He tries to see both sides and cannot commit to one or the other. His inability to dedicate himself to the patriot cause is challenged by Rhodes’ daughter, Sally (Mallory Drazin), who confronts him with the fact that he is “a kind man—too kind.” She adds, “There are some devils in this world who will only use your patience against you.”

This story commandeered my attention with its depiction of the uncertainties of pre-Revolutionary New England and the tensions that built up over several years that led to war between the colonies and England. In Episode 4 of Courage, New Hampshire, the numerous and angry disagreements between the local representatives of the crown and the citizens of Courage, culminate in a meeting between the Governor himself and the New Hampshire militia gathering for training day in Portsmouth. In observing the hundreds of colonial militiamen showing their force of arms, the governor is confronted with the reality of the situation: the growing rebellion is stronger than he ever imagined.

There were so many highlights of this episode that it is difficult to know where to begin. The acting was superb overall with stellar performances by Napoleon Ryan (Governor Wentworth) and Jim Tavare as the incredibly evil kings’ man, Bill Krepps.

Once again Rotem Moav has provided an unforgettable soundtrack that befits every mood, whether tender or tension-filled.

Drew Ganyer, Director of Photography, has outdone himself with his use of illumination. A scene where a barn door opens, enveloping the reverend being held prisoner in a shroud of dust-filled light, is pure movie-making artistry.

While this is an independent series by Colony Bay Productions, its quality can stand up against the best in the industry. “Bravo” and “Huzzah!” to all involved.

The numerous storylines in Courage, New Hampshire are unresolved. This viewer is ready for the rest of the series.

Although I am now an Affiliate of Colony Bay Productions, I am not posting my personal affiliate link to purchase DVD’s at Reflections In Hindsight. Nor was I required to post a positive review. I am truly excited to now be a small part of promoting this wonderful series that helps illuminate the beginnings of our nation. In these days of uncertainty in our country, it is a wise man or woman who seeks an understanding of our past, to gain perspective on our present, as we pray for our future.

To purchase Episodes 1 through 4, visit their site here.