Friendly Persuasion

When Monogram Pictures decided to change its name to Allied Artists to give it a more prestigious look, the studio didn't last too long after that. Still had the Monogram/Bowery Boys look to it. But the biggest and best film that... Full review

"Friendly Persuasion" is the second best movie about the Civil War. "Gone With The Wind" is the first. This movie is about the Quakers living in Indiana in 1862 and how they are trying to cope with the Civil War. They... Full review

As I recall this movie was unofficially black-listed because of who wrote the screenplay. Such a shame as this is one of the few perfect movies ever made. Every frame is measured and presented perfectly. Every role is played perfectly. Just... Full review

Nearly half a century old but a film with irresistible charm and atmosphere. Some might describe it as rather sickly sentimental at times, but William Wyler's touch is always assured and coaxes performances of great charm from all the principals. I... Full review

Classic Hollywood film about family of southern Indiana Quakers who resist the call to arms during the civil war. Gary Cooper and Dorothy McGuire are perfectly cast by William Wyler as father and mother, Jess and Eliza Birdwell who must guide... Full review

A beautiful and sensitive film of a Quaker family whose peaceful existence is disrupted by the Civil War. Beautifully photographed with superb performances by Cooper and McGuire. Anthony Perkins gives an exceptional performance as the son who wrestles with the notion... Full review

In spite of this, Friendly Persuasion 's warm affection for its subjects makes it worthwhile viewing.....The film's main weakness is the way it handles the theme.... ... Full Review

This is a big, colorful, entertaining movie that could only have been made in the 1950s;....Unlike many modern dramas, this film is not afraid to be funny.....This is recalled later in the film in the best scene, when the imminent arrival of the Confederate soldiers changes circumstances....also has some of the best lines.....as Shakespeare taught us, comic interludes before dramatic scenes increase the tension and importance of what follows..... ... Full Review

Right up front, I want to allay those fears because the DVD edition of this wonderful film really outshines the Laserdisc in every way possible. Much of FRIENDLY PERSUASION is quite humorous, although the film never mocks Quaker beliefs. ... Full Review

Adapted from the best-selling novel by Jessamyn West, Friendly Persuasion is set in Southern Indiana in the early days of the Civil War. Gary Cooper plays Jess Birdwell, patriarch of a Quaker family which does not believe in warfare. ... Full Article