Dead Cert (1974 film)

Dead Cert is a 1974 British crime thriller film directed by Tony Richardson. It is an adaptation of the 1962 novel of the same name by Dick Francis. It was directed by Tony Richardson with a script co-written by ex jockey and Daily Telegraph racing correspondent (Lord) John Oaksey, who was also technical advisor and a riding double in the film. It was shot at Fontwell and Aintree.

Plot
Alan York is stunned when his dear friend, skilled jockey Bill Davidson is killed during a simple steeplechase. Convinced Davidson's death was no accident, York begins an investigation with a suspicion that Davidson's racehorse, Admiral, was drugged in a murderous act of sabotage. Assisting him as he delves into this world of high stakes, horses and gambling is Davidson's devoted widow, Laura.

Critical reception
The film was premiered on 9 May 1974 at the London Pavilion, with guest of honour Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips. Reviews were largely negative. Dick Francis later told Clive Hirschhorn of the Sunday Express that the film had been:

"an utter disaster. I blame the director, Tony Richardson, for its failure. He chopped and changed it about so badly it was virtually unrecognisable. This was particularly embarrassing because Princess Anne sat next to me at the premiere. It was the first time I'd seen a completed version of the film and I was appalled. I'm sure the princess hated it, but, of course, she was very gracious."

The film ran for three weeks in London before going on general release. It was the only Dick Francis novel to make it to the cinema.

Cast
The horse Admiral was played by the three-day eventing champion Cornishman V, the same horse that played Arizona Pie in International Velvet.