Friendly Persuasion
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Movie Reviews of Friendly Persuasion
Movie Review: Friendly Persuasion - Friendly Movie
Summary: 5 Stars
Friendly Persuasion has long been one of my favorite movies. It is one of those rare pictures where each scene is a gem in itself, while adding to the film as a whole. Of course, Gary Cooper is outstanding in this, one of his best roles. But that is only the begining. Dorthy McGuire, as his wife, and a minister to their Quaker community, provides an equaly outstanding performance. Richard Eyer, as their younger son, provides humor and warmth. Phyllis Love is outstanding in the role of their marriagable daughter, who falls in love with their neighbors son, who is an officer in the union army, providing a wonderful, warm, romantic touch. And Anthony Perkins plays their older son, torn between his family's beliefs and his duty to protect that family. this may be his best role ever.
Besides the great cast, and there are many other wonderful performances in this movie, the setting is ideal. No hollywood cardboard sets! There are buggy races, Civil War action, a raid on the farm by Confederates, and enough romance, comedy, action, and drama for me.
Movie Review: Family drama with humor and humanity.
Summary: 5 Stars
The first two thirds of the film are a family drama packed with humor and humanity; the Civil War is looming closer and closer in the background. Cooper is the head of a Quaker family, an ideal role for him, a bit like his earlier portrayal of Sgt. York. Dorothy McGuire (A Tree Grows in Brooklyn, Old Yeller) is perfect as his wife. The most excitement this family sees is an occasional horse race with a neighbor (Robert Middleton) on their way to church. And the competitive spirit is about the extent of Cooper's sins, which also include a like of music. But when the war comes into their lives, this religious family must face the choice of kill or be killed.
If you loved Friendly Persuasion, another Civil War family drama with a religious perspective that you also might like is "Of Human Hearts," starring James Stewart and Walter Huston. Hopefully it will come out on DVD sometime.
It is noted on the back of the VHS box that Ronald Reagan gave a copy of this film to Mikhail Gorbachev at the height of the cold war.
Movie Review: "I Will Not Harm Thee" ~ Can Family, Faith And Passivism Endure In Time Of War?
Summary: 5 Stars
`Friendly Persuasion released in '56 is a life affirming tale of faith, family and passivism against the heartbreaking backdrop of the bloody American Civil War. Directed by William Wyler the film focuses on a small Quaker community in the South, more specially on one particular family in that community, the Birdwell's.
This quiet, contemplative community is turned upside down when war is declared between North and South and the sound of gunfire and conflict draws ever closer. With the inevitable intrusion of the outside world comes the expected re-evaluation of both individual and community beliefs and what actions must be taken to protect family and property. Can passivism survive in a time of war?
Starring two of my favorites, Gary Cooper (Jess Birdwell) and Dorothy McGuire (Eliza Birdwell). Also wonderful performance by Anthony Perkins as Josh Birdwell.
Highly recommended!
Movie Review: Still a wonderful movie for the young and old!
Summary: 5 Stars
I had not seen this movie in many years, and as a teacher, I was asked recently to consider some "character education" films for middle schoolers. What a delight to be able to choose this film -- one that none of the students had ever heard of. This story of a Quaker family during the Civil War is comfortably directed by William Wyler and demonstrates that family values based in honesty and tradition are what supports us in times of crisis. The Birdwell family, headed by Gary Cooper and Dorothy Maguire, are bombarded with gentle and not-so-gentle pressures that provide model decision-making for tweens. The humor and patience with which all family members confront violence, romance, and domestic squabbles can be enjoyed by the whole family (and the classroom). My class treated me to some sophisticated conversation, and they learned a bit about peacekeeping in this world. I would highly recommend this film!Movie Review: Friendly Persuasion
Summary: 5 Stars
This is a movie that I have seen on and off through the years and have always loved. The Civil War, violence and how it affected members of different faiths and how they responded to it is a subject that I had not really considered when studying this in school.
Gary Cooper is perfect as the strong father who struggles with his passion for horse racing (to church) with his friend and neighbor, and problems arise when he purchases an organ at the fair--music is not allowed by his religion!
Son Anthony Perkins did well as a devoted son who feels shame at not fighting in the war and defending his home and family and has to make up his own mind how to respond when push comes to shove.
This movie has everything; drama, humor and music! I still love it, no matter how many times I have seen it.