Last Sunday I watched the first episode of The Civil War, the documentary film by Ken Burns which was rerun this week on PBS. The documentary was originally broadcast in 1990.
I missed it then because I rarely had time to watch TV, much less think, with a 2-year-old running around. I wasn't a quilter then and I wasn't really much interested in history either. Barbara Brackman hadn't written her books introducing us to quilting during the Civil War and reproduction fabric had not caught on yet to give us even more inspiration.
I've seen a few episodes over the years but this time I saved them all on my DVR so I can re-watch them at my leisure. I know it's a little late telling you now since I think PBS is airing the last episode tonight, but if you have not seen this excellent series, check to see if it's being rerun in your area or try to get it from your local library. Better late than never. According to Christine's comment below, the series is also available now through Netflix.
I am also excited because I just found out that the movie about Lincoln's assassination, directed by Robert Redford, is coming out next week. It's called The Conspirator and stars Robin Wright Penn as Mary Surratt, the lone female charged as a co-conspirator in the assassination trial of Abraham Lincoln.
According to a press release, "Robert Redford focuses on the chaotic moment in history directly following President Lincoln's assassination to tell the story of the proud mother charged with committing the monumental crime, and the ambitious young lawyer who reluctantly becomes her defense attorney. As the whole nation turns against her, she is forced to rely on her reluctant lawyer to uncover the truth and save her life." I can't wait to see it. Too bad Redford himself isn't in it . . .
The Conspirator opens in theaters on April 15, the anniversary of Lincoln's assassination in 1865.
Thank-you for the information about the upcoming movie. I won't miss it. I also have been (re)watching The Civil War. I learn each time I see it. I must tell you that I have all your books and your latest is EXCELLENT!! Thanks for those and your blog. Miss Luella
ReplyDeleteI guess if in Spain would ever see the series, but I won't miss the film, it will come in half a year, or more...
ReplyDeleteThanks for the tip about the upcoming movie. The Civil War series was just splendid. One of the best things ever on tv, I think.
ReplyDeleteI love the PBS series. Shelby Foote reminds me so much of my father it's not funny. The series is available to rent through Netflix if anyone is interested.
ReplyDeleteThanks for the heads up. I just recently heard of Barbara Brackman. I will check this the PBS Series on Netflix and the new movie!
ReplyDeletei love [history] documentary shows and i'll keep my eye out for this one, if/when it's televised in Aust.
ReplyDeleteBtw the 'Conspirator' sounds intriguing..can't wait to see it!!
I dont know where you are but Im in New Jersey and in addition to the Civil War WHYY our local PBS channel has Lap Quilting with Georgia Bonesteel... What a treat if you can get this channel!!!
ReplyDeleteDoubt we would ever see anything like that on New Zealand t.v.I will look out for the movie though.
ReplyDeleteAbout six months ago I was amazed to see even more Civil War prints in the quilt shops - then the light bulb went on - starting this week is the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War - with 5 years of "150th anniversaries" important dates during the War. I also watched the "Civil War" series this week - very informative. Now for the Redford movie! Thanks for the "heads up"!
ReplyDeleteWe've been glued to the TV all week watching it. DVRd 3 of the 4 (missed one). AND hubs and I have a date to watch Conspiracy when it comes out. I think I should have lived during those times. I am such a history geek. If you want a great Civil War read, Widow of the South is AWESOME!
ReplyDeleteBlessings...
I did noticed the Civil War series was listed, but didn't have the opportunity to watch it. Thanks so much for the info on Redford's movie. I will definitely see that.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a wonderful tv series! I will definitely watch out for the movie release here!!!
ReplyDeleteMy heart sank when I realized I'd missed the Civil War mini-series on PBS. Thanks so much for the tip about it being offered on Netflix. It can be instantly downloaded and watched at the viewers convienence!
ReplyDelete