John Adams: A Must See
I finished watching the HBO special series John Adams, produced by Tom Hanks, based on David McCullough's book. It is, simply put, spectacular. It brings the history of the tumultuous days of the beginning of the United States to life in a way that is simply unparalleled. It conveys the sense of outrage and injustice that moved America's founding fathers to throw off the yoke of Great Britain's oppressive rule. The writing, acting, filming and authenticity is truly breathtaking. This is definitely not a series to show young children, there are some scenes of things that we would not wish the little ones to see. If you are a fan of the book, and by all means, you must read it if you have not, then you will simply love this movie. It captures the depth and warmth of John and Abigail's relationship, and shows Adams, warts and all, through his triumphs and tragedies. The episode, Part II, where the Declaration of Independence is debated and adopted is a particular treasure. And, as a real treat and bonus, there is a thirty minute documentary on David McCullough that is a feast for anyone who has anything to do with writing.
I watched the series on HBO and was very impressed with such a rare and honest look at our forefathers and our beginnings. I’d have watched 80 episodes.
The quality for TV was unlike anything I’d seen. I’m no fan of computer generated images, but theirs were magnificent and virtually undetectable. It truly looked like a cast of thousands and authentic locations.
I wonder if we’ve had, since those amazing days, such energetic combinations of intellect and grit in our politicians, or if we’d recognize such qualities in men. In that way, it didn’t inspire me, because I don’t see us having the fire-in-the-belly anymore, for freedom and for erudite, but plain, talk.
It was, however, a wonderful depiction of and tribute to the man, to the men and women, and to the singular temper of those singular times.
I agree with Paul. We watched the series on HBO earlier this spring. Very accurate. It’s hard to believe that Tom Hanks was the executive producer of this series. His left leaning views had me biased about his ability to produce an accurate historical series on the life of John Adams. I’m impressed, he did a good job. Now he should work on other Presidents.
I had read the book and listened to the book-on-cd, but don’t have HBO in our house (fleeing from temptation and all that).
My son (a History major/teacher) watched it and said it was superb. I did get to see the documentary on McCullogh when we visited my son last weekend, and it was great.
I’ve been a fan of McCullough’s for many years (The Great Bridge, Path Between the Seas, etc), he is a national treasure. I would love for him to do a Washington bio.
McCain: Me too, Jim. I was however highly disappointed in 1776. It was not of the same quality as his other works. We received John Adams via Netflix. I’m sure you can rent it at a local video store. If you loved the book, you are really going to cherish how well this series brings that book to life.
I’ve been a big fan of McCullough for many years. When I was an engineering student, one of my profs had us read The Great Bridge and Path Between The Seas. Great history, but great writing, too.
I had listened to the “Adams” book on CD, but haven’t seen the HBO series. (We don’t have HBO at our house – something about “fleeing from temptation”.)
I did get to see the McCullough documentary when I visited my son last weekend. “Painting with Words” is the title, from how McCullough describes his goal as a writer.
I’d love for him to do a G. Washington bio!