Watching "John Adams" but thinking about "1776"
By coincidence, today, Independence Day, I'm midway through HBO's John Adams. But I'm unable to watch scenes of the Congressional Congress without expecting them to break into song. That's because my introduction to the signing of the Declaration of Independence was watching 1776 as a kid many years ago, and back in the days of limited network channels somehow this movie and The Music Man would always be broadcast on July 4. (Where is either movie on Blu-ray, or 1776's soundtrack CD?) 1776 can feel like a history lesson at times, but I like it a lot: it's funny, William Daniels gives a tour-de-force performance as John Adams, and as an American I find it quite moving. Watch a clip of the opening number below or on YouTube. Happy Fourth of July! --David
Christine L Rice on July 04, 2009 at 08:25 AM
Let Freedom Ring! Thanks for sharing this - I cannot believe I've never seen either of these movies. It will be a welcome view of patriotism. Happy and safe Fourth to the U.S.A.!
FredTownWard on July 04, 2009 at 08:42 AM
There never was a specific movie soundtrack album, but the 1776 (1969 Original Broadway Cast) [CAST RECORDING] album, which is still available, includes performances by many of the same actors who went on to star in the film. One notable exception is Rex Everhart, who replaced Howard da Silva at some performances and on this recording.
That's about as close as you can get.
David Horiuchi on July 04, 2009 at 10:11 AM
FredTownWard, I do have that cast recording. And it has Betty Buckley instead of Blythe Danner, I believe. Agreed that that's pretty darn close for a show-to-movie.
s video cable on September 19, 2009 at 04:00 AM
YAA i also like to watch it.As it belongs to the era of 1776 the chemistry of actors and choreography is simply lovable and appreciating one.Thanks for posting.
joesen on November 11, 2010 at 10:51 PM
But I'm unable to watch scenes of the Congressional Congress without expecting them to break into song.