John Adams

Baceman Spiff · Post by **Baceman Spiff** » Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

Is anybody else watching the HBO mini-series? Its a really good insight on the Founding Fathers. Who seem to be frequently quoted on RP.

All the history buffs in house holla back yo!

DirtySanchez · Post by **DirtySanchez** » Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

Samuel Adams- Brewer, Patriot.

VENTGtr · Post by **VENTGtr** » Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

Don't have HBO, but wish I did just to see this. I'll pick it up when it
comes out on DVD. Have heard good things about it.

Imgrimm01 · Post by **Imgrimm01** » Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

I have been and I have been enjoying it, Although it reminds me how the fathers of this Country would roll in their graves if they were alive today. perhaps their would be another revolution... Great Series though...

skipisode · Post by **skipisode** » Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

I also missed it on HBO, but definitely want to see it. I agree the founding fathers would have a fit if they saw what was going on these days. If only our current politicians had the wisdom and insight these guys had..........
imagine what the U.S. and the rest of the world would be like.

DrumAndDestroy · Post by **DrumAndDestroy** » Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

DirtySanchez wrote:Samuel Adams- Brewer, Patriot.

thank you

Banned · Post by **Banned** » Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

Don't have HBO so cannot watch. I am a little curious how Paul Giomatti is portraying the Scottish Adams. Just would not be my first choice, and I am a Giomatti fan, especially in the movie The Illusionist.

Baceman Spiff · Post by **Baceman Spiff** » Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

undercoverjoe wrote:Don't have HBO so cannot watch. I am a little curious how Paul Giomatti is portraying the Scottish Adams. Just would not be my first choice, and I am a Giomatti fan, especially in the movie The Illusionist.

He's doing great IMO. I haven't read anything about John Adams' mannerisms, but he really adds a human side to the character that I've never seen before. You should check it out, when it goes to DVD.

Brian of the Clan Plush · Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

I'm really digging it. I agree Giamatti is giving alot of depth to the character. Two things in particular that are subtly woven in are the puritanical backgrounds of alot of these historical figures (including Adams) and also the "politics" of it all. I think some of you are missing some of the references to the "backroom deals" that are just now starting to surface, that make those cats not so much unlike the politicians of today - many were (are) greedy and short-sighted and took a quick victory without considering the long-term ramifications. They sold out like Metallica with a new haircut. Its also interesting to see how George Washington is being portrayed in contrast to how he is remembered in common myth. Where the story stands now, he's kind of a political puppet - a popular patsy who is being used by the real power brokers. Ben Frankiln's character is also a real departure from the conventional wisdom. More good stuff from HBO.

HurricaneBob · Post by **HurricaneBob** » Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

The "making of" was cool too and shed a lot of insight into the whole show.
Ill be recording every episode, quality stuff.

Hawk · Post by **Hawk** » Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

I don't have HBO. I love those kind of shows though. I hope it eventually hits another network. Sounds like you guys are enjoying it.

homerski · Post by **homerski** » Wednesday Apr 02, 2008

DrumAndDestroy wrote:
DirtySanchez wrote:Samuel Adams- Brewer, Patriot.
thank you

+2

I don't have HBO anymore since the Sopranos are done. But I also look forward to seeing it.

JH

Baceman Spiff · Post by **Baceman Spiff** » Thursday Apr 03, 2008

Brian of the Clan Plush wrote:I'm really digging it. I agree Giamatti is giving alot of depth to the character. Two things in particular that are subtly woven in are the puritanical backgrounds of alot of these historical figures (including Adams) and also the "politics" of it all. I think some of you are missing some of the references to the "backroom deals" that are just now starting to surface, that make those cats not so much unlike the politicians of today - many were (are) greedy and short-sighted and took a quick victory without considering the long-term ramifications. They sold out like Metallica with a new haircut. Its also interesting to see how George Washington is being portrayed in contrast to how he is remembered in common myth. Where the story stands now, he's kind of a political puppet - a popular patsy who is being used by the real power brokers. Ben Frankiln's character is also a real departure from the conventional wisdom. More good stuff from HBO.

Here's we're going to disagree. While, yes it does display some "backroom deals", I believe thats just the nature of compromise. Everyone of them knew that if we we're going to gain independence, some deals we're going to made. This was 13 independent 'nations' with their own societies and philosophies, trying like hell to come together.

As far as Washington is concerned, I didn't see him portrayed as a puppet or a patsy. I think he was shown as "the man" with the power, experience and popularity among the common folk, as he truly was. While there were probably those who felt that GW wasn't the most intelligent and qualified person for the job. He was the most obvious choice. Which is why I think Adams was chosen to be his VP, he could add some balance to Washington.

And no, Franklin isn't shown as the wise old scientist who discovered electricity, like we were taught in grade school. But like Adams, their showing his more human side. Franklin's philandering has been well documented. Its also well known that the French adored Ol' Ben, when he stayed in Paris. Not unlike a rockstar.

The most interesting part for me so far, was the scene where Jefferson and Adams ( who quite close at this point ) were debating the creation of the Constitution. Jefferson says something to effect of 'How can one generation lock future generations into rules that were only relevant in their time?' To which Adams replies 'But there must SOME rules, some stable guidelines or we will tear ourselves apart'. Its the 'living document'
debate that still goes on today. Interesting indeed.

If you cant tell, I REALLY like this show!

skipisode · Post by **skipisode** » Thursday Apr 03, 2008

There have to be some RULES. That's the point I was kinda getting at when I said some of today's politicians could use a lesson. They seem to forget the RULES. I can't wait to see this show to see HBOs take. I love history and am aware of many of the "backdoor" deals made to get ahead.
Alexander Hamilton was notorious for these. Should be good.

BDR · Post by **BDR** » Thursday Apr 03, 2008

I dig history, as well, specially American history. Don't have HBO, but I watch a great deal of documentaries on History Channel and what not.

BDS lovingly refers to that time as my "geek time."

r:>)

PanzerFaust · Post by **PanzerFaust** » Thursday Apr 03, 2008

Cool show.. although I'm more into American Hx from 1860 on...

If you have HBO it's also available "ON-DEMAND" so you can watch it anytime.....

sav · Post by **sav** » Friday Apr 04, 2008

A wonderful series... In my non-music time, I'm a historian by trade, and in my opinion HBO has done a commendable job of adding dramatics and human interest to this series without sacrificing historical accuracy. I'm thoroughly enjoying this series so far, and wait with baited breath for every Sunday's new episode!
P.S.
Off topic plug: Sweetwater in Boalsburg tomorrow night! 10-1 at Kelly's!
Here endeth the shameless self-promotion.