When I was reading about "Sunrise at Campobello", I read a word I'd never heard before....'hagiography'. Well, I thought I could guess what it meant...and was shocked I got it right! Apparently, a hagiography is a biography that is too idealized to be real...elevating the subject to almost sainthood. Well, I wouldn't go that far to say this about "Sunrise at Campobello"...though in some ways this term is quite appropriate. It clearly is a biography, and sometimes a moving one, but also presents the most idealized view of the man possible during much of the movie. In other words, watch it by all means...just don't assume every single thing about it is gospel.
The film covers the period of time between Franklin Roosevelt contracting polio and his returning to the political world for the 1928 election...where he personally nominated Al Smith for president. In between, you see his struggle and his family's reaction to his struggle. No mention is made of his affairs nor anything particularly negative other than his losing his patience once or twice during the film. Considering he was paralyzed, this did seem a bit unreal.
Despite the problems with the film, I must admit that the movie is exceptionally moving and very well made. It is worth seeing...just understand that it's not completely accurate...less a biography and more a celebration of the best of him. And, as a former US History Teacher, I didn't adore everything about the film but certainly respect it and enjoyed it.
The film covers the period of time between Franklin Roosevelt contracting polio and his returning to the political world for the 1928 election...where he personally nominated Al Smith for president. In between, you see his struggle and his family's reaction to his struggle. No mention is made of his affairs nor anything particularly negative other than his losing his patience once or twice during the film. Considering he was paralyzed, this did seem a bit unreal.
Despite the problems with the film, I must admit that the movie is exceptionally moving and very well made. It is worth seeing...just understand that it's not completely accurate...less a biography and more a celebration of the best of him. And, as a former US History Teacher, I didn't adore everything about the film but certainly respect it and enjoyed it.