PBS's long-running Masterpiece Theatre debuted in 1971 with the 12-part BBC production The First Churchills, based on Sir Winston Churchill's biographical writings about his 17th-century ancestors John Churchill and Sarah Jennings. Over three decades later, the miniseries is still a delight, built around a classic romance between a hugely likable couple buffeted by the ever-shifting political winds in the House of Stuart. John Neville (The Adventures of Baron Munchausen) plays John Churchill, a military officer who built much of King Charles II's army and never lost a battle, and Susan Hampshire (The Forsyte Saga) is Sarah, aide and confidante to the Duchess of York. The two marry for love instead of money (to the consternation of family and friends), and their intimate, mutually respectful relationship endures after Charles dies and a revolving-door monarchy puts the whole of England in danger. The First Churchills offers a painless, entertaining means of learning some royal history, buttressed by strong turns in the supporting roles by James Villiers (as Charles), Alan Rowe (as William, Prince of Orange), and Margaret Tyzack (as Queen Anne). Definitely looking its age in a lackluster DVD transfer, special features on this four-disc boxed set include an interview with Hampshire, a sampling of the real love letters exchanged between John and Sarah, and a House of Stuart family tree. Highly recommended. (T. Keogh)
The First Churchills
Acorn, 4 discs, 533 min., not rated, DVD: $79.99 Volume 19, Issue 6
The First Churchills
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