Warm Springs

Amazon.com

Warm Springs is a riveting, deeply moving film about a lesser-known chapter in the life of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the American president who saw his country through the dark, terrible times of the Great Depression and most of World War II. Before those epochal events, however, Roosevelt spent time in a political wilderness, groomed for high office but struck down by polio at age 39. Warm Springs is the fascinating story of Roosevelt's painful journey from despair back to wisdom and leadership. Kenneth Branagh gives an emotionally raw, courageous performance as FDR, estranged from his wife, Eleanor (a near-luminous Cynthia Nixon), and his political guru (David Paymer) while ambivalently seeking rehabilitation at Warm Springs, a broken-down spa in the backwoods of Georgia. Mired in misery, misanthropy, and drink, Roosevelt is coaxed back to civilized behavior and a glimmer of altruism by the spa's ailing, folksy manager, Tom Loyless (a remarkable Tim Blake Nelson), and the ministrations of a progressive-minded, physical therapist (solid work by Kathy Bates). Word of Roosevelt's improvement in the buoyant, mineral-rich waters of Warm Springs draws other polio victims--some of whom endure terrible discrimination and misery while traveling—to the spa. In time, these hopeful, all-ages paraplegics form a community that inspires a sense of mission in Roosevelt, setting the stage for his return to the political arena. Surehanded, 80-year-old veteran director Joseph Sargent (on a roll following his lovely, 2004 cable movie Something the Lord Made) has made a pitch-perfect and intimate, historical drama one never wants to see end. --Tom Keogh

Description

He was the only president to be elected three times, and is admired for his leadership during some of this nation's most challenging times, most notably, World War II and the Great Depression. Despite these historic accomplishments, many Americans have never known of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's greatest achievement...until now. Starring Kenneth Branagh (Shakespeare) and Cynthia Nixon(Sex and the City) this inspiring true story reveals one man's secret quest for hope during his darkest days, in a place that would serve as a source of strength for him the rest of his life: Warm Springs.

DVD Features:
Audio Commentary
Deleted Scenes

Customer Reviews:

Very Good Movie.......2006-11-11

I don't know about the historical accuracy of this movie, but it was very entertaining and well acted, in my opinion (naturally, since I am writing this!). It left me wanting to know more about FDR and I think that in and of itself should recommend it.

FDR is revolving in his grave.......2006-09-23

This was a agonizing viewing experience from first to last. The main problem is the complete miscasting of Kenneth Branagh in the role of FDR. I don't know whose idea it was to cast a British actor in the part, but the results are embarrassingly bad. If you thought Anthony Hopkins was miscast as Richard Nixon, Branagh as Roosevelt beats that hands down.

History lesson for the screenwriters: Franklin Roosevelt was a 19th century patrician gentleman. He was reared as a rich, spoiled only child, educated at Groton and Harvard and had the world by the string. Branagh apparently thinks having an American accent will suffice, but he is physically and emotionally all wrong for the part. Roosevelt was 6'2, Branagh is about 5'8. He possesses none of the real man's ebullience, wit, charm, charisma or the friendliness that oozed from every pour. For some inexplicable reason, Branagh plays FDR as a seedy, unshaven and unfriendly bum. Where are the characteristic head tilts, the jaunty manner, the lilting voice? Branagh plays FDR as if he were Jimmy Cagney!

Yes, FDR went through a prolonged depression in the aftermath of his polio but here's the rub: he never showed this to anyone. He suffered in silence. He didn't display his real emotions, he had been a taught as an upper class gentleman of his era to obscure them. Thus it's ridiculous that this screenplay has him complaining to valets, Louis Howe or Eleanor.

Cynthia Nixon as Eleanor Roosevelt is scarcely any better. Eleanor Roosevelt is probably the easiest woman to imitate of the 20th century, but Nixon hasn't a clue how the real Eleanor looked or sounded. The examination of the torturous, complicated Roosevelt marriage is totally absent. We see one brief flashback of Franklin undressing his mistress Lucy Mercer and then... nothing.

The screenplay is dreary and they achieve the impossible: making the fascinating Roosevelt come out boring and droning. It was enough to make you tear your hair out.

The only saving grace was the presence of the regal Jane Alexander, who played Eleanor magnificently in the TV drama "Eleanor and Franklin" from 1976. This is available on Amazon on DVD and I urge everyone to watch this infinitely superior production. The sets are insane and the homes which serve as Hyde Park and Campobello are anything but. The definitive characterization o FDR comes from the late Ralph Bellamy. Watch him in the TV mini series from the 80's, "Winds of War" and War and Remembrance." Perhaps Mr. Branagh should have watched these and real films of FDR before tackling this job. He's an adequate actor but miscast to a hideous degree in this limping dog of a drama.

Warm Springs.......2006-08-29

If you happen to see this in a DVD store or your TV listings, I recommend watching it. Kenneth Branagh is, of course, an excellent actor. In this film, he portrays Franklin Delano Roosevelt in the years between the onset of polio and his return to politics. I've never heard this part of his bio before, and it's quite interesting.

The plot must be somewhat simplistic, since it compresses much into 100 minutes, but that doesn't make it a bad plot or a bad movie. Knowing what little I do of FDR's later history gives depth and meaning to this formative part of his life.

Again, I recommend this one. Not five-star material, but damn worth watching.

Enlightening Story.......2006-08-19

If anyone ever had a legitimate reason for giving up on a political career it was Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt. WARM SPRINGS is the film that shows how they fought back that urge and conquered their fears to become two of the greatest Americans. The film garners some of the best acting I've witnessed from lead actors and supporting actors as well, but the main highlight of this piece is the story. The story is one that will remain with me for many years to come because it depicts the time in this couple's life that prepared them to lead America through the Great Depression as well as World War II. The world needed men and women of courage and stamina to defeat the likes of Hitler and because of what happened to them here no one had more courage and stamina than Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt.

The picture we see of Franklin as the film begins is one of a rich, spoiled, self absorbed man who is in an extra-marital affair. He and Eleanor are on the verge of separating. It's 1920 and his star is on the rise politically. It seems to be fear of committing political suicide that prevents that breakup. Eleanor at first is a shy traditional wife who is afraid of crowds, who resists the opportunity at every turn to help boost her husband's career.

Fate intervenes and Franklin contracts a devastating case of polio, and it seems at first that his political career is over. But, he receives a letter from a man in Warm Springs, Georgia who runs a place where polio victims can swim in the near 90 degree spring water and receive therapy to build up their leg muscles. It's here that Franklin again finds a mission for himself; here that he sees people who were born under much less fortunate circumstances than himself. In spite of being victims of polio or their caretakers, these less fortunate men and women create a community of people who truly care for each other. Franklin learns at Warm Springs to be compassionate. Back in New York, Eleanor supports her husband by keeping his name in the political fray. She becomes an activist and makes speeches and demonstrates for the downtrodden. She learns in his absence to be strong and as a result grows into a truly political asset.

After this experience, this couple not only loved each other, they respected and revered each other as well.

Good acting by Kenneth Branagh and Cynthia Nixon(Sex and the City) as the Roosevelts........2006-08-14

It's about when Franklin Delano Roosevelt came down with polio and how he attempted to recover by using natural hot springs water at a broken down resort in Georgia. The plot didn't try to sugar coat FDR or his wife Eleanor. They were shown to be flawed human beings who trudge through life like the rest of us, learning to cope with problems like most of us do. It made me sad to see the fear and discrimination toward polio victims. One scene was heartbreaking where a young man was in the baggage car, chair tipped over with him in it, and hasn't ate for two days! Thankfully, there are laws protecting the disabled today.

Of course, FDR never walked again but that didn't stop him from becoming one of the greatest presidents of the USA.

Average customer rating:

A Gift for Everyone!
gather singers
Fantastic

Gaither Homecoming Classics, Vol. 2
Starring: Bill & Gloria Gaither , and Homecoming Friends
Manufacturer: Spring House / EMI
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

All Deals | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( G ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

$9.99 and Under | DVD Blowouts | Stores | DVD | Video

All Blowouts | DVD Blowouts | Stores | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B0001GWBRI
Release Date: 2004-03-09

Customer Reviews:

A Gift for Everyone!.......2007-03-09

I purchased this item AGAIN! Originally I bought it for myself -- the song, "I've Just Seen Jesus" is an operatic wonder. Now everyone wants
a copy after hearing my DVD and so I buy this album often to give to
friends and loved ones needing an uplifting/spiritual boost! (And I buy
through Amazon for the price advantage.)

gather singers.......2007-02-06

This dvd was bought as a gift for my mom who loves the gaither singers and she was very happy

Fantastic.......2007-01-10

We have been Gaither fans for years. This video continues the quality we expect from Bill Gaither and the Homecoming videos.

Average customer rating:

Music of Hope............
I am still waiting
gaither singers
a wonderful collection of gospel gems

Gaither Homecoming Classics, Vol. 1
Starring: Bill & Gloria Gaither , and Homecoming Friends
Manufacturer: Spring House / EMI
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

All Deals | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( G ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video

$9.99 and Under | DVD Blowouts | Stores | DVD | Video

All Blowouts | DVD Blowouts | Stores | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B0001GWBQ4
Release Date: 2004-03-09

Customer Reviews:

Music of Hope...................2007-04-11

This is great music to speak to your heart, soul and mind. I love to play it with the children around. Alot better for their minds than what is popular with the mainstream today.

I am still waiting.......2007-02-18

I haven't received this as of February 17th. This is poor customer service, I did not receive a reason why and I will never order through Amazon again.

gaither singers.......2007-02-06

I bought this as a gift for my mom and she loves the gaither singers she said it was great and she loved it

a wonderful collection of gospel gems.......2004-04-05

Culled from Bill and Gloria Gaither's many live Homecoming reunions, from venues as diverse as the famous old Ryman Auditorium in Nashville to the beautiful Central Hall Westminster, in London, England, some of gospel music's greatest singers are showcased with brief introductions by Bill. These are all inspiring songs that fill the heart with praise, hope and gratitude, and they're performed with devotion and musical excellence.

Song list:
1. "Farther Along" ~ Ivan Parker, 1995.
2. "Sweet Beulah Land" ~ Squire Parsons, 1995
3. "To God be the Glory" ~ Andrae Crouch, (this is mislabeled on my copy) 2001
4. "Joy Comes in the Morning" ~ Joy Gardner, 1996
5. "Rock of Ages" ~ Vestal Goodman, Reggie Smith, Joy Gardner, Stephen Hill, 1998
6. "In the Garden" ~ The Mullins Family, 1995
7. "I Believe in a Hill Called Mount Calvary"~ Gaither Vocal Band, 1998
8. "Whispering Hope" ~ Larry Ford, 2000
9. "If I Can Help Someone" ~ Glen Payne (in one of his last performances), 2000
10. "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" ~ Larry Ford, 2000
11. "Lord, Send Your Angels" ~ Candy Christmas, Kim Hopper, Charlotte Ritchie, 2000
12. "I'm Free" ~ Lynda Randle, David Phelps, 2000
13. "The King is Coming" ~ Gaither Vocal Band, George Younce, 2001
14. "Through it All" ~ Jessy Dixon, Ben Speer, 1996
15. "The Blood Will Never Lose its Power" ~ CeCe Winans, 2001
16. "Highway to Heaven" ~ Jessy Dixon, Glen Payne, (one of the 2 up-tempo songs in the collection, it's a real hand-clapper) 1998
17. "The Old Rugged Cross Made the Difference" ~ Gaither Vocal Band (Guy Penrod), 2001
18. "Standing in the Need of Prayer" ~ Evie Karlsson, Sarah DeLane, 2001
19. "Oh, What a Time !" ~ Gaither Vocal Band, Jake Hess (the 2nd up-tempo song) 2001
20. "Climbing Jacob's Ladder" ~ Ann Downing, The Ruppes, The Nelons, Greater Vision, 2001

Customer Reviews:

John and Rachel Franklin.......2007-05-07

This is a fantastic DVD. The good thing about it is that everyone can enjoy it, both young and old. We have found it a real blessing to play over and over again.
God Bless you.

Another Blessing from the Gaithers.......2007-04-04

This is another Gaither DVD which has a wonderful selection of hymns. There are hymns that I grew up with, and there are hymns that were new to me. They are well performed. This DVD is a blessing. There are poignant renditions of "He Giveth More Grace" and "Softly and Tenderly" the latter featuring Cynthia Clawson. There are rousing versions of songs such as "Hallelujah! We Shall Rise," "Just a Little Talk With Jesus," and "The Old Account Was Settled Long Ago." I fell in love with "He Will Lead His Children Home" which I had never heard before. Two or three of the songs have prominent bass lines which are infectious. If you like old fashioned hymn singing, you should get this DVD.

Amazon doesn't list the tracks for this DVD. They are:

1. Hallelujah! We Shall Rise
2. At Calvary
3. A Beautiful Life
4. He Will Lead His Children Home
5. I'd Rather Be An Old-Time Christian
6. A Rose Among The Thorns
7. God Put A Rainbow In The Clouds
8. He Giveth More Grace
9. Grace Greater Than Our Sin
10. Nothing But The Blood
11. Wayfaring Stranger
12. Joy Unspeakable
13. Just A Little Talk With Jesus
14. Life's Railway To Heaven
15. Without Him
16. Does Jesus Care?
17. The Old Account Was Settled Long Ago
18. Satisfied
19. Softly And Tenderly

Hymns.......2007-01-13

My wife and I like hymns by the Gaither s.

Dan Usrey

Average customer rating:

Robert and Clara Schumann -- in German -- but excellent!
Clara Schumann bei mehr als
Mid-19th century Europe, the life and times of Schumann the composer
A Historical Romance In Music
Excellent

Spring Symphony
Starring: André Heller , Sonja Tuchmann , Margit Geissler , Herbert Grönemeyer , and Anja-Christine Preussler
Director: Peter Schamoni
Manufacturer: Image Entertainment
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Drama | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $14.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( S ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B00000JN28
Release Date: 1999-08-31

Description

A motion picture of passions, "Spring Symphony" is a story of love, hate and artistic ambitions. Nastassja Kinski and Herbert Gronemeyer star as Clara Wieck and Robert Schumann, star-crossed classical musicians of the nineteenth century trying to overcome the stifling objections of Wieck's father. All three of them share the same passion for music, but the battle the two men fight for Clara's affections is at the same time a fight between different artistic styles and different lifestyles, a war between the generations. When Schumann finally wins his Clara, "Spring Symphony" is the expression of his love and passion for her.

Customer Reviews:

Robert and Clara Schumann -- in German -- but excellent! .......2007-04-05

The first thing to keep in mind with this movie about Robert and Clara Schumann is that it's entirely in GERMAN although English sub-titles are available. I actually preferred it that way and there is no English dubbing available although, as stated, English sub-titles can be turned on or off via the DVD machine. You might recall Herbert Grönemeyer as Leutnant Werner, the 'Kriegsberichter' or war correspondent on the German submarine, in the excellently done movie "Das Boot" some years ago.

As Robert Schumann, he does an excellent portrayal as does Nastassja Kinski as Clara Wieck-Schumann. Equally engrossing throughout the film is Clara's, shall we say, ultra no nonsense and rather dour and humorless father, Friedrich Wieck, played by Rolf Hoppe. The court scene where Friedrich tries to legally prevent the marriage of his daughter Clara to Robert Schumann and his perceived 'reasons' for same are particularly engrossing.

In this one, Schumann's right hand finger problem is attributed to the 'mechanical device' he concocted to strengthen his fingers yet stories still abound about the alleged 'real' cause of same but these kind of things [read: conjectures] happen with most world known personalities indeed to the point of utter speculation as to, in another well known personality, Beethoven's "Immortal Beloved" where, in my opinion, pure speculation is all too often passed off as alleged historical fact for the sake of the plot more so than any verifiable historical reality! Or proof of the cinematic contention.

The music is excellent and the note fingerings very good and believable. A few of Clara's zoom-in hands on the keys were done by a double although Grönemeyer himself plays the piano so he was able to quickly adapt to the requisite Schumann music note fingerings. So, if you want to keep up your German [or use the sub-title English] while enjoying a decently realistic portrayal of Robert and Clara Schumann, this movie is a good bet! The supporting cast is equally good and the movie moves along nicely. Note too, if only for the sake of curiosity, some of the suggested 'cures' for the finger problem and you'll be rather gratified at today's medical advances!

Doc Tony

Clara Schumann bei mehr als.......2007-02-16

Leck mich am Arsch! Clara Schumann bei mehr als 120 Millionen Menschen mit Deutsch als Muttersprache in 8 Ländern, überrascht es kaum, dass die tatsächliche Sprachverwendung variiert. Wie Englisch, ist Deutsch eine plurizentrische Sprache mit 3 nationalen Zentren der Sprachverwendung: Deutschland, Österreich und die Schweiz. Die sprachliche Schumann Situation in der Schweiz unterscheidet sich deutlich von der Situation in Deutschland und Österreich. 'Switzertütsch', die durchgängig verwendete Umgangssprache, wird auch von Deutschen und Österreichern kaum bzw. nicht verstanden. Das Verhältnis zwischen Switzertütsch und Hochdeutsch ist eines der Zweisprachigkeit. Aus diesem Grund bezieht Brahms sich der folgende Überblick nicht auf die Situation der Schweiz.

Mid-19th century Europe, the life and times of Schumann the composer.......2007-02-14

Frühlingssinfonie, is a mellow, lush in senses movie, with a Schumann
soundtrack, following the composer's footsteps at crucial moments in
his career.

The movie perhaps downplays Schumann's importance, by assigning him
to a secondary role, compared to the protagonist Clara Wieck, played
by Nastassja Kinski, aged 24 at the time, back in 1983 when his
picture was made.

This is a European, obviously state-funded production, of the
highest professional quality, as it was often the case back then, when
movie houses, television, technical professionals in the movie
industry had immense experience, skills, and education due to the
sponsorship they had from the governments, before the collapse of the
Cold War.

A questionable aspect of the movie, is the need to intertwine an
ephemeral part of the composer's life, which is his personal, sensual
relationship, (played by the actor Herbert Gronemeyer), with the
performer of his pieces, Clara.

The stronger aspects of this movie, is the excellence in its
representation of 19th century Europe, (horse and carriage,
panoramic views of the countryside, palaces, city neighborhoods in
Germany, Austria, for example, the way people dressed, carried
themselves, their outlook on life, the pressure of high density
cities to the inhabitants from early on, the privileges of the upper
classes in having time to learn to enjoy, and attend concertos, etc.

The charm of Kinski, which is mostly improvised as far as I can
tell, and not mechanical or rehearsed, obviously has something to say for
the promotion and acclaim this work received at the time. All
dialogue is in German. Rolf Hoppe, playing Wieck's father, does
a tremendous job, lending enormous credibility to the movie.

A Historical Romance In Music.......2004-10-01

Peter Schamoni's 1983 German film "Spring Symphony" is an intimate, accurate portrayal of the relationship between two composers- Robert Schumann and Clara. It is a wonderful film, with fine acting by the leads Herbert Gronemeyer and Natassia Kinksi, who had been a model and would enjoy further success after this movie. The time is early 19th century (1830-1850)during the Romantic Era craze in classical music. Beethoven opened the gates to the new wave of music, which would be followed by Chopin and Franz Liszt, all mentioned in this film. Robert Schumann is portrayed here as a struggling artist, an idealist who lives from hand to mouth, more along the lines of Mozart. He gets romantically involved with the more wealthier and polished Clara Wieck whose father opposes their love. Even like this, Robert and Clara, who had become lovers through working together as composers, continue to defiantly engage in their relationship. Clara's father is brought to trial but in the end Clara and Robert are married. The film is accurate, and not highly dramatized or romanticized far from the truth. Filmed in Germany, Austria and France, the film follows the career of Schumann quite truthfully - i.e: the fact he was injured and his fingers were paralized and even as such played the piano quite well, his publication of a music magazine under the pen names of Eusebius and Florestan. Eusebius is his practical, balanced side while Florestan is passionate and free-spirited. A beautiful film. Natassia Kinksi plays a fine Clara, strong, independent, refined, romantic, soulful. The costumes and attention to detail are precise, captivating us and hooking us into a new world of historical romance.

My favorite scenes are those romantic moments between Clara and Robert, the opening scene with Paganini playing a violin concerto with lightning speed, all the chamber music scenes and recitals Clara has and the finale in which finally, Clara and Robert have married and decide to open their own concert hall..Robert says "I hope this institution is big enough for two instruments" and I think he was referring to their marriage. The music is heaven. Conductor Wolgfang Sawallisch leads his orchestra in brilliant music by both Robert Schumann and Clara.

Excellent.......2002-06-11

The writer and director of this film is Peter Schamoni, not Alfred Hirschmeier as reported in another customer review, and he took most of the dialogue from the correspondence and other documentation of Robert,Clara and Friedrich Wieck. Anyone with knowledge of Schumann's correspondence, his love of poetry and dramatic narrative and the world of 19th century German romanticism will recognize the accuracy and faithfulness of the dialogue used throughout this wonderful film.

The look and sound of the pianofortes used is another example of the care lavished on presenting Robert and Clara's world as accurately as possible.

Customer Reviews:

One of the best and most touching films ever made.......2006-11-19

This is the type of story that rarely gets told in big budget Hollywood. It involves an seven-year-old orphan, Xiao Hua, who runs away from her brutal foster parents in the middle of the night. She runs so far that she is in another village when she collapses.
No one in this poor village wants her,and one by one each walk away from her giving excuses for why they can't take her. But a kindly old man steps forth and volunteers to take care of the orphan, much to his son and his son's wife's sugrin.They are trying to have a child of their own, and little Xiao Hua is now in the way.
The daughter-in-law tries desperately to get rid of the child. She is brutal to her and attempts several times to take her away, but the kindly grandfather stops her. The little ophan holds no contempt for anyone and only wants her new family to love her. Not only does she succeed at this, but also wins the love and respect of everyone in her new village.
The scenes of the child begging not to be turned away are heart wretching, and will require the most jaded viewer to reach for a box of keenex.And in the end secrets are revieled, and you see how the old man is rewarded beyond riches for the kindness he bestows upon her.
Hollywood would never make something like this. It has no sex, no profanity, no child being molested. It shows the daughter-in-law in a virolent manner, and the viewer can slowly see her change in attitude toward little Xiao Hua because there is actually charcter development in the movie instead of cardboard figures or stereotypes.
The movie print is not on par with todays USA releases, but it is acceptable enough. You won't notice it anyway, because the story is so involving. It will stay with you...and I mean you really will find yourself thinking about it...days after you view it.
On a side note, I have a daughter who is half Chinese, and she resembles little Xiao Hua in appearance, which caused even more pinure for myself while watching this film.

Average customer rating:

A BLUEGRASS MUST-HAVE!
All-Star line-up on this gospel bluegrass album!

Gospel Bluegrass Homecoming, Vol. 1
Starring: Various Artists
Manufacturer: Spring House / EMI
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $7.49 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( G ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B0000DIZRY
Release Date: 2003-11-04

Description

Bluegrass, or mountain music, was born in the hills of Appalachia in the early part of the 20th Century and gradually made its way into the pews of churches all throughout America. Along with gospel music, it has become a unique and treasured American art form. Now the legends of bluegrass music join voices and instruments with the best in gospel music for a remarkable two-part series hosted by Gospel Music Hall of Famer Bill Gaither and contemporary bluegrass banner-carrier, Marty Stuart.

Customer Reviews:

A BLUEGRASS MUST-HAVE!.......2004-08-20

I live in Australia and thought I would try and get this DVD at my Christian Book Store. Bluegrass isn't very popular where I live, and I usually buy my music from Amazon. I was shocked when I ordered this DVD and had to pay $50 ($38 US) Dollars for it! I complained all the way home.(I'll never stray again, Amazon...Promise!) However, once I started watching the DVD (I have both volumes on CD), I was so IN AWE of every performer, to me each song was worth $50!! My 3 children absolutely love 'The Lewis Family' singing "Honey In The Rock", every time the CD is playing they will repeat that song 5-6 times! My 8 year old son, just HAD to get the DVD so he could watch them sing it and was very impressed with Little Roy's 'mouth sounds' he makes in the song. He thought there was an actual instrument that made those sounds. (YEAH, A HUMAN ONE!)
Marty Stuart and his Fabulous Superlatives, and Ricky Skaggs & Kentucky Thunder are "THE" Masters, and just keep getting better. I found myself standing from my couch (very moving) and clapping for Dr. Ralph Stanley and his Clinch Mountain Boys. What an HONOR to hear him! It was the first time I had heard Rhonda Vincent & The Rage(on CD), and she is spectacular. Jeff, Sheri and Charlotte and the Isaacs are so good, you'll play their selections twice before moving on.
The Bluegrass Greatest shine with Marty Raybon, Del McCoury, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, The Nashville Bluegrass Band and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. The raw Traditional sounds are just excellent, and I have never heard such etheral music. Jake Hess and Gloria Gaither do a wonderful reciation and song with "Sunday Meetin' Time", and the Gaither Vocal Band sing the most Beautiful rendition of "Yes, I know". It's Awesome!!
You will definitely enjoy this one. There is some fantastic instrumentals with some of the finest pickin' I've ever seen, AND heard! There is even a bonus segment with The Carter Family, with some Bluegrass History to tell. If these fine folk ever run out of places to practice, they can come 'down under'! I'll be glad to have 'em!

All-Star line-up on this gospel bluegrass album!.......2004-01-22

This is a nice album featuring an all-star lineup of musicians and singers doing gospel bluegrass. This line up includes Ricky Skaggs, Del McCoury, Marty Stuart, Rhonda Vincent & The Rage, Ralph Stanley, The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, The Issacs, The Nashville Bluegrass Band, The Lewis Family, The Easters and more.

This DVD is a great listen for the most part. Unfortunately I feel the recording is marred by the cut "So Many Years, So Many Blessings" sung and played by the the Lewis Family. It seems that someone made a technical blunder leaving a special effect turned on for the vocal mics and made this song sound like Donald Duck has joined in. Since the set of the Lewis Family included a cute rendition of "Honey In The Rock" using the "Donald Duck Voice effect" effectively, my guess is that someone accidently left the effect on or had turned on the setting accidently for the "So Many Years, So Many Blessings".
Regardless of how it happened, the "So Many Years..." piece -which had some fantastic flatpicking guitar on it- is so marred by the obnoxious effect on the vocalists voices. I skip over this piece and enjoy the rest of the concert.

My recommendation is buy the DVD anyhow despite this flaw on that one cut. There is plenty on this DVD to enjoy. "The Gospel Plow" by the Nashville Bluegrass Band is flawless IMO. Ralph Stanley's "A Robin Built a Nest on Daddy's Grave" could not be done any better IMO. Rhonda Vincent's "When The Angels Sing" showcases Rhonda Vincent's beautiful voice talents. And the Finale of "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" wraps up the show with a mass band effort with duets between the various artists gathered for this concert.

Description

Customer Reviews:

Gaither Homecoming friends.......2007-09-16

This vidio is the usual good work-enjoyed the bonus footage as much as the regular feature. Recommend to others who like the old country bluegrass gospel sound. Am waiting for some more similar and the new video of the Signature Sound group that will be out shortly.

Even Better Than Volume One.......2005-12-19

I just hoped this would be as good as volume one but think it may actually be better. The music is played in a heartfelt way that you just don't find anywhere else. You won't go wrong buying either volume but you may want to start with this one.

BLUE GRASS GOSPEL.......2005-01-16

I HAVE BEEN LISTENING TO THIS KIND OF MUSIC FOR 65 YEARS.THIS IS THE VERY BEST I HAVE EVER HEARD. PHOTAGRAPHY, AND SOUND VERY WELL DONE; I LIKED IT SO MUCH I BOUGHT 5 COPIES EACH, OF VOLUME 1 AND VOL.2 AND SENT IT TO 4 SONS, AND A COUPLE OF FRIENDS. > I AM 76 YEARS OLD, AND HEARD A LOT IN MY TIME;
JAMES A.YOUNG;MILAN, OHIO

GREAT WITH VOL. 1.......2004-09-30

This DVD is bluegrass at it's bluest! All the artists are true performers and this is a must-have for bluegrass fans. Every song is just excellent, I can't fault one single, solitary thing in it. The bonus segment at the end (also on vol.1) includes the Carter Family and some history of their music. There's some great singing on it, too. I now have both volumes and really enjoy watching them. It's just like being there!

"Blue Ribbon Bluegrass".......2003-11-28

In the opening minutes Bill Gaither introduces us to the scenic wonders of Clinch Mountain, Virginia, and talks about how this area would produce "a sound that would revolutionize American music", and in this gathering of superb musicians, we get to hear this marvelous "sound".
Here is the play list:

Ricky Skaggs and Kentucky Thunder: "I'm Ready to Go", a fast number with virtuoso flying fingers, and "Are You Afraid to Die ?", a plaintive song that is my kind of bluegrass.

The Easters sing the sweet and lovely "Lord, Send Your Angels", and in acappella, "Rivers of Babylon".
Doug Lawson and Quicksilver sing more acappella harmony with "I Am Going to Heaven".
The Isaacs sing the sad, moving ballad "Another Soldier Down", and an up-tempo number with a great title: "He ain't Never Done Me Nothin' but Good".
Del McCoury and The Del McCoury Band are one of my favorites, and Del's unique talent and voice give us "Recovering Pharisee".

Ricky Skaggs, Ronnie McCoury, Doyle Lawson and the one and only Marty Stuart perform a blazing instrumental, "Rawhide".
The Gaither Vocal band gives us a tender, devotional ballad, "Knowing You'll be There".
Mountain Heart are absolutely extraordinary in their two songs, "John", and "Gospel Train".
Cynthia Clawson performs "Hear the Voice of My Beloved", and "Rock of Ages", and her singing goes right to the heart..
Ralph Stanley and The Clinch Mountain Boys are the stuff legends are made of, and they give us "Rank Strangers to Me", and "Gloryland".
Vestal Goodman, The Easters, and Charlotte Ritchie sing the joyous "Jesus, Hold My Hand".
The Lewis Family are one of the traditional families of bluegrass and they sing "I Plan to Meet You There".

Customer Reviews:

Memories revival.......2007-05-23

This video is a wonderful reminder of the good, loud singing we did in our own country church when I was a child. In those days, our songs, those on the video, were very uplifting and heartfelt. I don't often find the music in any church today as satisfying. I enjoyed singing along.

An 'ol time church meeting!.......2007-01-13

I rate this DVD as one of best in the Gaither series. It took me back in time to what an early 20th century church service might have looked like. I really enjoyed it, especially The Spirit movin' through Buddy Green's harmonica playing.

Nicely done DVD.......2006-03-27

Best DVD that i own. The surround sound and the selections of old hymns us great. Miniumum of solos with lots of choir and acapella singing. Wish I could find another like it. Just like going to a small country church.

Church In the Wildwood.......2005-10-03

This is a nice DVD, however it consists mostly of congregational singing. There are no songs perfomed by the GVB, Jake Hess, The Goodmans, Ivan Parker, etc. It is nicely arranged but lacks the quality of earlier releases by Gaither.

But the moment that will steal your heart is when you hear the Peasall sisters sing "Farther Along". This performance alone is worth the purchase price.

Gaither Homecoming Classics: Bill Gaither's 20 All-time Favorite Homecoming Songs and Performances Vol. 1

Average customer rating:

Gaither Homecoming Classics: Bill Gaither's 20 All-time Favorite Homecoming Songs and Performances Vol. 1
Starring: Bill & Gloria Gaither , and Homecoming Friends
Manufacturer: Spring House / EMI
ProductGroup: DVD
Binding: DVD

General | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Gospel | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

Christian Contemporary Music | Christian & Gospel | Styles | Music

General | Music Video & Concerts | Genres | DVD | Video

DVDs Under $9.99 | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

All Deals | Today's Deals in DVD | Special Features | DVD | Video

( G ) | Titles | Features | DVD | Video
Similar Items:

ASIN: B0001GWBR8
Release Date: 2004-03-09

DVD:

DVD

DVD