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The American Experience: Season 20, Episode 13George H.W. Bush: Part I (5 May 2008)Director:Austin HoytWriter:Austin Hoyt |
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Title: George H.W. Bush: Part I (05 May 2008)
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5 May 2008 (USA) See more »Company Credits
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Despite the widespread perception among many conservatives in America that PBS is generally anti-Republican, you certainly couldn't catch any hint of that sort of bias in this first part of a two-part biography of George H.W. Bush. It was, with very few exceptions, a glowing portrait of the man and it sure sounded like the people who made this film had a genuine affection for the man. Now this is NOT a criticism--just an observation of the tone of the show. It seemed to talk with great admiration for the man--and pointed out his many positive qualities while also pointing out that the man's humility make his achievements less obvious that you'd expect.
The film doesn't really talk much about Bush's childhood. It talks about his family heritage and pretty much skips from his younger years to his days in prep school as well as in the US Navy. From there, it chronicles his steps to Congressman, UN ambassador, RNC chairman, CIA chief, Vice-President and President. During most of this, the film pointed out that it felt he was an honest and decent man--and a nice family man. While I agreed with their comment, one cutting comment about Reagan was that he PLAYED all the roles that Bush actually was--a sports star, a war hero and a family man.
My assumption is that most folks watching this very well made film will leave with a greater appreciation for the man. Those on the very far left and even farther right might not agree with this, but it's doubtful they'll even watch the film in the first place. As for me, I love history and have really enjoyed the presidential biographies--such as the ones on FDR, Truman, Eisenhower, Nixon and Reagan. They are without equal and expertly crafted--as well as very insightful.