Reviews

Wow! When I watched this movie, it brought back memories of my childhood in the "sanctified" church, both good and ugly. It is a heart-wrenching film about life, family, and the consequences of unacceptedness, and unforgiveness. The casting couldn't be beat, even if the movie was filmed today. Olivia Cole's sweet, sympathetic, painfully realistic performance should have earned her another Emmy. Ving Rhames, Giancarlo Esposito, and the then young actor I'm not familiar with - James Bond III - all also gave Emmy-worthy performances. Then, of course, the incomparable, late, great Paul Winfield, and legendary Rosalind Cash personified their characters so well, sometimes I almost forgot I was watching a movie! Those who are completely unfamiliar with the black Holiness church in the early 1900's may be somewhat shocked and confused with the final church scene, but if you are at all familiar with the concept of being "filled with the Holy Spirit" in the majority of today's Pentecostal or Full Gospel churches, you will have a better appreciation of it. This movie is indeed a hidden powerhouse more people should have the opportunity to see. Especially if you enjoy movies with a church/family culture theme such as "The Apostle," "The Gospel," "The Color Purple," or any of the Tyler Perry Madea movies.

I agree that the lead character of "Peter Pan" was masterfully played by the late Mary Martin. The dance routines with the "Indians" were very humorous, but may be considered racist today, especially since the chief was played by a blond (Sondra Lee). My children particularly liked the music and singing. Also they were thrilled with the movie magic of flight, which was pretty good, considering this was a televised stage play from over 40 years ago. I would say the biggest drawback to this movie is also its greatest attribute, which is Peter Pan himself (or herself). My 2 year old kept saying he is a girl. I know it has become a tradition for Peter to be played by a female, but it is rather confusing to young children.