O Pioneers! (1991 TV Movie) User Reviews

What theater presented on television should be

[dutchqd · 10/10 · 13 December 2002]

This is an example of what theater presented on television should be. Mary McDonnell's performance as quiet but strong immigrant is textured and deep. I haven't seen this presentation in ten years, and I find I still remember many of the scenes vividly.

Follows the Willa Cather novel faithfully

[dugfowlr · 10/10 · 25 February 2005]

I had taped this presentation when shown on PBS back in 1991, and as I was rereading the book was prompted to play it again. I have probably read this book at least five or six times, since Cather's novels always develop memorable characters. I found the musical and choral additions to be very helpful in understanding the story. I thought the characters were all well cast, particularly that for Marie Shabata. I note that the filmed play is available in VHS form, and I think that anyone who appreciates good literature would enjoy it. I also own a tape of the television production released in 1992, which stars Jessica Lange as Alexandra Bergstrom, and would be hard pressed to recommend one rather than the other.