FINALLY on DVD after 36 years. This restoration of the 36-year chronicle of Taylor Caldwell's film-adapted Post-Civil War story arrives in as good a screen quality and enthralling script captivation as "Roots." Both originated in 1977. One can also compare it to "The Forsyte Sage" or "The Kent Chronicles." A must view for historical drama fans. A nostalgic look at 21 star actors of the 70s.
This landmark production (filmed in 54 days) is perfection in detail of sets, props, costumes - and scandal. "Testimony of Two Men" begins in 1864, a war battle. Civil War Dr. Eaton (Steve Forrest) returns to find his fiancée (Barbara Parkins- `Peyton Place') wedding Adrian Ferrier (William Shatner). Lust lingers amid all types of circumstances in the PA town of Hambledon, Philadelphia, and the world of new medical practice amid a local hospital. One could almost rename it Peyton Hambledon Place.
Dr. Hedler (Tom Bosley) often narrates memories throughout this near 5 hour fast-paced, action-filled, suspense and romantic drama. It feels contemporary, probably deserving a PG-13 rating for violence and relational situations, as the 1800s era possessed. Adrian's son, Dr. Jon Ferrier (David Birney) is one of the two men in the title that offers testimony. He is admirable in that lead role, something that can be said for a significant number.
Such as:
Dr. Spalding (Ralph Bellamy) is a `dirty' surgeon. Randolph Mantooth plays a priest, Ray Milland a tough munitions manufacturer, and Cameron Mitchell a lawyer. Plenty of beautiful ladies too. Margaret O'Brien, Joan Van Ark, Kathleen Nolan, Devon Ericson, Laurie Prange, & Linda Purl all become wives, lovers, and/or even ladies-of-the-evening.
SUBTITLES added for all 3 episodes. Disc 1, 1864-1899. Disc 2, New Years 1900 to 4th of July `01. Disc 3, begins July 5, 1901. Expect a desire to watch them all in one setting. And more than once. Baby Boomers will enjoy seeing this mini-series once again. Younger viewers will be impressed.
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