Ken Burns Explores Unchanging Human Nature in the American Revolution’s Lessons
Ken Burns, the acclaimed documentary filmmaker, is set to premiere his six-part series titled “The American Revolution” on PBS on November 16. This ambitious project has been in the making for ten years and aims to explore the origins of America amid a turbulent political landscape.
The Ken Burns Effect
The documentary showcases Burns’s signature technique, known as the “Ken Burns effect,” which creates motion in still images. This technique gained widespread recognition through his earlier work, “The Civil War,” released in 1990. Burns uses this method not only with historic photographs but also with paintings in his latest series.
Context of the Documentary
- Burns started this project in December 2015, during Barack Obama’s presidency.
- Significant political events in America have transpired over the decade he worked on this series.
- The narrative emphasizes quotes and sentiments from influential figures such as Thomas Paine.
Character Development and Storytelling
One of the remarkable features of “The American Revolution” is its character-driven storytelling. The series includes perspectives from historical figures as well as common citizens, providing a comprehensive look at the period.
Reenactments and Creative Techniques
Due to the lack of original photographs from the Revolutionary War, Burns incorporates reenactors to recreate significant events authentically. Over 500 hours of reenactment footage has been collected, emphasizing the era’s rich history.
Notable Contributors
The series features a star-studded cast, including:
- Tom Hanks
- Claire Danes
- Josh Brolin
- Meryl Streep
- Samuel L. Jackson
- Peter Coyote (narrator)
Each actor brings their unique talent, enhancing the documentary’s depth and reach.
The Filmmaker’s Dedication
Burns expressed his passion for storytelling, aiming to reflect unchanging human nature throughout history. He noted, “Human nature doesn’t change,” emphasizing that past struggles are still relevant today.
Future Projects
Following the completion of “The American Revolution,” Burns is working on several other projects, including films about Henry David Thoreau and the history of Lyndon B. Johnson. His dedication to documenting the American experience continues as he explores new narratives.
Conclusion
The release of “The American Revolution” will provide viewers with a thought-provoking exploration of America’s founding moments, connections to modern issues, and a reminder of the resilience of human nature.
