The Scarlet Letter

Rating:
Summary: definitive film version of the first american classic novel.
Review: I am elated that this PBS production of the Scarlet Letter (1979) has received a DVD treatment. John Heard deals superbly with the dichotomies and private tortures of Dimmesdale. John Heard is not only physically gorgeous (helping us understand Hester's "fall"), but he seems more than able to effortlessly manipulate this classic and complex character. Meg Foster is the quintessential Hester Prynne. Equipt to portray the lead as both a feminist and a desperate mother to Pearl.

The DVD also has behind the scenes footage.

This is the most accurate deftly-acted version of the first american classic novel. I highly recommed purchasing this DVd you will not be let down. Instead you will be provoked to question spirituality, America's puritanical early history, etc.
Well worth the money and your time!!!!!!!!!!

Please don't bother with the 1995 Demi Moore version. It got lost somewhere between One Life to Live and softcore Cinemax sexuality; it is dumb and a waste of your time.

Rating:
Summary: Good, but needs work
Review: I like this version of the Scarlet Letter, which is strictly true to the book, it could have been cast better, for the part of Roger Chillingworth, but all in all is a god film.

Rating:
Summary: Cut too long
Review: The story is good. There was a lot of thought regarding history, location and costuming The "Behind The Scenes" section was very interesting. This version was a production for TV & they forgot to remove the introductions & final rollups. The viewer has to fast forward thru these at each "chapter". For me, his breaks the tempo of the movie. I would have given Scarlet Letter 4-1/2 stars if the cut had been better.