This two-part documentary on William Randolph Hearst was very well done. There were no cheesy scenes with "re-enactors" and dreadful dialogue like what has become standard fare on the now laughably named "History Channel." This is a genuine and proper documentary; chock full of historical photographs and images of the people and the era, along with scholars who know their subject. I believe it is mainly based on the David Nasaw biography "The Chief: The Life of William Randolph Hearst." Nasaw is one of the commentators, along with other Hearst scholars. The best bit comes in Part Two when, after years of reading about Hearst's high-pitched voice, I finally got to hear him speak! It is definitely in the higher register, but it's not comical in any way. I was glad to hear him for myself. I wish there was a way to hear Abraham Lincoln's voice because he was also a powerful man constantly described as having a high-pitched voice.
My only complaint is that there is no mention whatsoever of the Thomas Ince scandal and it is glaring by its absence. This documentary would have been a good opportunity to put rumors to rest. There was also no mention of Louella Parsons, who was a vital part of the Hearst newspaper empire. Hearst had a long, full life, but even a cursory mention of Ince and Parsons would have helped give this a higher rating.
This is a documentary that is most definitely worth watching more than once. Hearst was a fascinating and complicated man. I've already read the book by Nasaw, which is also good. This documentary makes a good companion to the book.
My only complaint is that there is no mention whatsoever of the Thomas Ince scandal and it is glaring by its absence. This documentary would have been a good opportunity to put rumors to rest. There was also no mention of Louella Parsons, who was a vital part of the Hearst newspaper empire. Hearst had a long, full life, but even a cursory mention of Ince and Parsons would have helped give this a higher rating.
This is a documentary that is most definitely worth watching more than once. Hearst was a fascinating and complicated man. I've already read the book by Nasaw, which is also good. This documentary makes a good companion to the book.
