Master and Commander behind the scenes.
This film was intended to be the first entry in a franchise. However, due to low box-office numbers, no sequels were ever made, despite critical acclaim and multiple Oscar nominations.
The movie combines two novels - "Master and Commander" and "The Far Side of the World". Both deal with chasing down a privateer and the movie combines the long chase of the latter with the furious climactic battle of the former.
Paul Bettany was one of the few actors who did not get seasick during filming. He was a member of Sea Cadets as a kid.
To research for his role, Paul Bettany went to the Royal College of Surgeons in London to learn how to use 18th century surgical instruments.
During the film's pre-production, the replica...