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Special Features
BONUS Original trailer (2 min.) and a biography of John Jakes SDH subtitles Contains violence and sexual situations Due to the age of these programs and the improved resolution that DVD provides, you may notice occasional flaws in the image and audio on this DVD presentation that were beyond our ability to correct from the original materials.
Editorial Reviews
Based on John Jakes’s bestselling historical novels With William Shatner, Kim Cattrall, Don Johnson, Patricia Neal, George Hamilton, Delta Burke, and Tom Bosley Nominated for two Emmys® and a Golden Globe®
Based on the bestselling novels by John Jakes (North and South), this star-studded Revolution-era romp follows the fortunes of a young Frenchman (Andrew Stevens, Dallas) as he immigrates to America and crosses paths with historical heavyweights, including Paul Revere (William Shatner, Star Trek), Benjamin Franklin (Tom Bosley, Happy Days), Samuel Adams (William Daniels, St. Elsewhere), and George Washington (Peter Graves, Mission: Impossible).
Filled with adventure and romance, these three miniseries chronicle the saga of the Kent family in early America. In The Bastard, Frenchman Phillipe Charboneau adopts a new identity as Philip Kent in the colonies. In The Rebels, Kent fights in the War of Independence and strikes up a friendship with a dashing and reckless Virginian (Don Johnson, Miami Vice). The Seekers completes the story as Philip’s sons and grandson forge a life on the western frontier and fight in the War of 1812. Also starring Patricia Neal (Breakfast at Tiffany’s), George Hamilton (Where the Boys Are), Olivia Hussey (Romeo & Juliet), Delta Burke (Designing Women), and Kim Cattrall (Sex and the City).
Customer Reviews
Most Helpful Customer Reviews
21 of 21 people found the following review helpful
4.0 out of 5 stars
American History Mixed With Pulpy Melodrama: Some Of TV's Most Familiar Faces Bring The First Three Kent Novels To Life
May 22, 2012
Format:DVD
Between 1974 and 1979, author John Jakes introduced America to the Kent family in eight wildly popular novels. Originally conceived to celebrate the 200th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the books follow different members of the Kent clan around the time of the American Revolution. They start with the immigration of the original patriarch, Phillipe Charboneau (he changes his name to Phillip Kent) and proceed through history many generations later. The timing of the series couldn't have been more perfect for a television interpretation. Network TV was just discovering the possibility of EVENT programming with offerings like "Roots" in 1977 and "Centennial" in 1978. So in 1978 and 1979, the first three novels in the Kent Family Chronicles were aired for a public looking for the next big thing.
Two things need to be mentioned about any television production of this time. First, they are very much a product of their era. They will invariably appear dated due to the constraints of their medium. You can't expect the gritty realism available to networks like HBO today. And second, while bursting with famous figures and actual events, they are not meant to be taken as literal lessons in history. The Kent Chronicles are best appreciated as an adult soap opera set in a historical setting. These shows can be clunky, cheesy, awkward and amateurish at times but these juicy potboilers are really a fantastic time capsule. It would be easy to pick them apart, but it's just as easy to accept them as the pulpy fun they are (the unforgettable and equally ridiculous casting make it worth it, if nothing else)!
That said, this release combines all three miniseries productions into a 3 disc set. There is "The Bastard," "The Rebels" and "The Seekers" and each clocks in at about three hours and ten minutes. The DVDs won't have anything in the way of Bonus Material aside from an original promotional trailer and a biography of author John Jakes. They are presented in their original 1.33:1 full screen aspect ratio with English mono audio and available English subtitles. The images and audio qualities certainly show their age as the releasing studio readily admits, but I doubt you'll get any alternatives if you want to pick these up on DVD.
The Bastard: Kicking the adventure off, we meet Phillippe (Andrew Stevens with beautiful feathered hair) who is the illegitimate son of an English duke. He travels from France to England in an effort to claim his birthright, but after being spurned by daddy--he's off to America just prior to the American Revolution. The cast is littered with familiar names from acting heavyweights like Patricia Neal and Eleanor Parker to a plethora of TV friendly faces (Buddy Epsen, Harry Morgan, Lorne Greene, Kim Cattrall). My favorites have got to be William Shatner as Paul Revere and Tom Bosley as Benjamin Franklin. As Phillipe transforms to Phillip Kent, he is at the heart of a world in turmoil.
The Rebels: Continuing Phillip's story, the Revolution is in full fight. Not only must he juggle his responsibilities (and his love life), but he ends up playing a key role in the formation of a new congress. He has a prominent new friendship with a dashing Don Johnson and Stevens, Cattrall, and Bosley all reprise their roles. Add Jim Backus as John Hancock, William Daniels as John Adams, and Peter Graves as George Washington. This chapter will bring Phillip's story to its conclusion.
The Seekers: The third chapter deals with Phillip Kent's children and grandchildren and features a nice appearance by Randolph Mantooth (as Abraham Kent). The Kent family is now adjusting to life in America and this details their struggles on the western frontier and leads up to the War of 1812. A lot of this presentation seems to be setting up the further stories that never materialized (as this was the final adaptation). But, of course, who would want to miss such talent as George Hamilton, Rosey Grier, and Delta Burke? The story is largely given over to the young cast in the second half and has some nice melodrama.
Some will love the Kent Chronicles for their nostalgia factor. And some new viewers might be somewhat perplexed by the appeal. I will mention, however, that they diverge quite a bit from the books if you're a purist. But for what they are, as I mentioned earlier--they are like a TV time capsule. KGHarris, 5/12.
Two things need to be mentioned about any television production of this time. First, they are very much a product of their era. They will invariably appear dated due to the constraints of their medium. You can't expect the gritty realism available to networks like HBO today. And second, while bursting with famous figures and actual events, they are not meant to be taken as literal lessons in history. The Kent Chronicles are best appreciated as an adult soap opera set in a historical setting. These shows can be clunky, cheesy, awkward and amateurish at times but these juicy potboilers are really a fantastic time capsule. It would be easy to pick them apart, but it's just as easy to accept them as the pulpy fun they are (the unforgettable and equally ridiculous casting make it worth it, if nothing else)!
That said, this release combines all three miniseries productions into a 3 disc set. There is "The Bastard," "The Rebels" and "The Seekers" and each clocks in at about three hours and ten minutes. The DVDs won't have anything in the way of Bonus Material aside from an original promotional trailer and a biography of author John Jakes. They are presented in their original 1.33:1 full screen aspect ratio with English mono audio and available English subtitles. The images and audio qualities certainly show their age as the releasing studio readily admits, but I doubt you'll get any alternatives if you want to pick these up on DVD.
The Bastard: Kicking the adventure off, we meet Phillippe (Andrew Stevens with beautiful feathered hair) who is the illegitimate son of an English duke. He travels from France to England in an effort to claim his birthright, but after being spurned by daddy--he's off to America just prior to the American Revolution. The cast is littered with familiar names from acting heavyweights like Patricia Neal and Eleanor Parker to a plethora of TV friendly faces (Buddy Epsen, Harry Morgan, Lorne Greene, Kim Cattrall). My favorites have got to be William Shatner as Paul Revere and Tom Bosley as Benjamin Franklin. As Phillipe transforms to Phillip Kent, he is at the heart of a world in turmoil.
The Rebels: Continuing Phillip's story, the Revolution is in full fight. Not only must he juggle his responsibilities (and his love life), but he ends up playing a key role in the formation of a new congress. He has a prominent new friendship with a dashing Don Johnson and Stevens, Cattrall, and Bosley all reprise their roles. Add Jim Backus as John Hancock, William Daniels as John Adams, and Peter Graves as George Washington. This chapter will bring Phillip's story to its conclusion.
The Seekers: The third chapter deals with Phillip Kent's children and grandchildren and features a nice appearance by Randolph Mantooth (as Abraham Kent). The Kent family is now adjusting to life in America and this details their struggles on the western frontier and leads up to the War of 1812. A lot of this presentation seems to be setting up the further stories that never materialized (as this was the final adaptation). But, of course, who would want to miss such talent as George Hamilton, Rosey Grier, and Delta Burke? The story is largely given over to the young cast in the second half and has some nice melodrama.
Some will love the Kent Chronicles for their nostalgia factor. And some new viewers might be somewhat perplexed by the appeal. I will mention, however, that they diverge quite a bit from the books if you're a purist. But for what they are, as I mentioned earlier--they are like a TV time capsule. KGHarris, 5/12.
10 of 10 people found the following review helpful
Format:DVD
Weren't the `70s a great time to be alive? What other decade could've given us THE KENT CHRONICLES, a trio of TV mini-series produced by Universal and syndicated to local channels shortly after America's Bicentennial celebration.
Based on John Jakes' bestsellers (the same author of "North & South," whose books would be more memorably brought to TV several years later), each mini-series (roughly three hours in length) follows the journey of Frenchman Philippe Carboneau - aka Philip Kent - and his descendants, from the original Kent's (Andrew Stevens) trip to the New World and run-ins with Paul Revere (William Shatner!), George Washington (Peter Graves!) and Ben Franklin (Tom Bosley!) among others - and by others, I mean a who's who of famous and bit-part actors from Patricia Neal to a young Kim Cattrall, Buddy Ebsen, Harry Morgan, Donald Pleasance and Olivia Hussey. The story was continued in "The Rebels" - with Kent engaging in the American Revolution - and the less entertaining, western-set "The Seekers," though a fetching, young Delta Burke, at least, makes an appearance in this final installment of the "Kent Family Chronicles."
Long out of print on home video, Acorn brings all three mini-series to DVD in the form of a three-disc box-set. Fans who've wanted to see these hard-to-find productions ought to be sufficiently entertained by the hokey backlot production values and actors playing themselves more than the historical figures they're supposed to embody - but, in this instance, that's also part of the charm. The 4:3 transfers and mono soundtracks are all adequate across the board.
Based on John Jakes' bestsellers (the same author of "North & South," whose books would be more memorably brought to TV several years later), each mini-series (roughly three hours in length) follows the journey of Frenchman Philippe Carboneau - aka Philip Kent - and his descendants, from the original Kent's (Andrew Stevens) trip to the New World and run-ins with Paul Revere (William Shatner!), George Washington (Peter Graves!) and Ben Franklin (Tom Bosley!) among others - and by others, I mean a who's who of famous and bit-part actors from Patricia Neal to a young Kim Cattrall, Buddy Ebsen, Harry Morgan, Donald Pleasance and Olivia Hussey. The story was continued in "The Rebels" - with Kent engaging in the American Revolution - and the less entertaining, western-set "The Seekers," though a fetching, young Delta Burke, at least, makes an appearance in this final installment of the "Kent Family Chronicles."
Long out of print on home video, Acorn brings all three mini-series to DVD in the form of a three-disc box-set. Fans who've wanted to see these hard-to-find productions ought to be sufficiently entertained by the hokey backlot production values and actors playing themselves more than the historical figures they're supposed to embody - but, in this instance, that's also part of the charm. The 4:3 transfers and mono soundtracks are all adequate across the board.
6 of 6 people found the following review helpful
Format:DVD
US history drama. A who's who of 1970s-1980s TV. The first NYTimes triple best-sellers adapted (but not closely) to television and now it's debatable which is best, books or miniseries? John Jakes authored the novels. A stellar cast in each of the 3 adaptations, so huge it's impossible to list all. It is `70s TV filming with SUBTITLES added. The music is good, sets and locations quite believable. It's a walk through America beginning in 1771 up to and past 1814. A lot of history, pioneer life, war, political change, and more in America's beginning steps leading to world prominence. The story is all seen through the eyes and lives of the fictional Kent family.
Over 3 hours for each episode. Action, adventure, history, romance, violence, & sexual situations make it for mature youth and older. So nostalgic to see all the stars, for those who lived in the 1970s.
The BASTARDS: 1771-1772
Philip Kent started as the illegitimate son of a Duke. Troubles led him to the new world to seek his means. Andrew Stevens is a believable Philip in "Bastards" & "Rebels." Through the encouragement of Ben Franklin (Tom Bosley), Kent seeks a printer's job and ultimately gets involved in early Boston activity (yes, tea involved) and men that forge a revolution toward liberty. The series was considered low-budget, but how could it be with the star-power.
Kim Cattrall (Philip's wife), Buddy Ebsen, Lorne Greene, Harry Morgan, Patricia Neal, Donald Pleasence, William Shatner (P. Revere), Noah Beery Jr., for starters.
The REBELS: 1775-1781
Philip plays a large role in the Revolution, working closely with Gen. Washington (Peter Graves), John Adams (William Daniels), Tom Jefferson (Kevin Tighe), John Hancock (Jim Backus) and soldier friend Judson (Don Johnson) is back from `Bastards.' Also returning was Cattrall, Bosley, & Neal. You see some war skirmishes but most of the action is away from guns, and the womenfolk are involved too.
You visit Virginia, Boston, Ticonderoga, Philly, Cambridge, Valley Forge and parts betwixt. You'll run into stars: Doug McClure, Robt Vaughn, Wm Conrad (Narrator), Tanya & Forrest Tucker, plus.
It's different from the book, so sit back and enjoy a TV action adventure Revolution.
The SEEKERS: 1794-1814 and more.
In 3 hours viewers see 4 Kent generations. Abe Kent (Randolph Mantooth) is primary, son of Philip (now by Martin Milner). He rejects a Boston printer secure life for the West (Ohio) with sibling Elizabeth (young slim Delta Burke). The west is hard, emotional, and heartbreaking, for the Kents and the viewers.
Serious drama of the Wild West filled with TV western stars. Like Edie Adams as a cat-house madam, river boatmen John Carradine and Neville Brand, Robert Reed and Julie Gregg running a trading post, trapper Brian Keith, print editor Ross Martin, Ed Harris plays Clark with Skip Riley as Lewis. Roosevelt Grier takes a whip, Geo Hamilton is nasty, and Harriet Karr beautifully nasty. Many names left out, not to mention author John Jakes (also North and South author) playing a role himself.
Although fiction, it represents the reality of pioneer America. Although adaptations, it dramatizes the essence of the novels. Although 1979, it is timeless from an enjoyable educational historical viewpoint. If you like Americana historical drama TV, also try "The Adams Chronicles." You can't get too many chronicles.
Over 3 hours for each episode. Action, adventure, history, romance, violence, & sexual situations make it for mature youth and older. So nostalgic to see all the stars, for those who lived in the 1970s.
The BASTARDS: 1771-1772
Philip Kent started as the illegitimate son of a Duke. Troubles led him to the new world to seek his means. Andrew Stevens is a believable Philip in "Bastards" & "Rebels." Through the encouragement of Ben Franklin (Tom Bosley), Kent seeks a printer's job and ultimately gets involved in early Boston activity (yes, tea involved) and men that forge a revolution toward liberty. The series was considered low-budget, but how could it be with the star-power.
Kim Cattrall (Philip's wife), Buddy Ebsen, Lorne Greene, Harry Morgan, Patricia Neal, Donald Pleasence, William Shatner (P. Revere), Noah Beery Jr., for starters.
The REBELS: 1775-1781
Philip plays a large role in the Revolution, working closely with Gen. Washington (Peter Graves), John Adams (William Daniels), Tom Jefferson (Kevin Tighe), John Hancock (Jim Backus) and soldier friend Judson (Don Johnson) is back from `Bastards.' Also returning was Cattrall, Bosley, & Neal. You see some war skirmishes but most of the action is away from guns, and the womenfolk are involved too.
You visit Virginia, Boston, Ticonderoga, Philly, Cambridge, Valley Forge and parts betwixt. You'll run into stars: Doug McClure, Robt Vaughn, Wm Conrad (Narrator), Tanya & Forrest Tucker, plus.
It's different from the book, so sit back and enjoy a TV action adventure Revolution.
The SEEKERS: 1794-1814 and more.
In 3 hours viewers see 4 Kent generations. Abe Kent (Randolph Mantooth) is primary, son of Philip (now by Martin Milner). He rejects a Boston printer secure life for the West (Ohio) with sibling Elizabeth (young slim Delta Burke). The west is hard, emotional, and heartbreaking, for the Kents and the viewers.
Serious drama of the Wild West filled with TV western stars. Like Edie Adams as a cat-house madam, river boatmen John Carradine and Neville Brand, Robert Reed and Julie Gregg running a trading post, trapper Brian Keith, print editor Ross Martin, Ed Harris plays Clark with Skip Riley as Lewis. Roosevelt Grier takes a whip, Geo Hamilton is nasty, and Harriet Karr beautifully nasty. Many names left out, not to mention author John Jakes (also North and South author) playing a role himself.
Although fiction, it represents the reality of pioneer America. Although adaptations, it dramatizes the essence of the novels. Although 1979, it is timeless from an enjoyable educational historical viewpoint. If you like Americana historical drama TV, also try "The Adams Chronicles." You can't get too many chronicles.
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Item as described and shipped quickly.
I have loved these movies for years and am so glad they finally came out on DVD. It was a pretty good A/V transfer considering the age and original quality of the A/V to begin... Read more
Published 28 days ago by Ryan Belland
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Video Series
Written by one of my Favorited authors this series brought the books to life.
Enjoyed it very much. Too bad they did not conclude it with the rest of the story.
Enjoyed it very much. Too bad they did not conclude it with the rest of the story.
Published 1 month ago by David Atwell
3.0 out of 5 stars
Boring Production.
Nice histroical novel. Books far exceed the mini series. Very boring production. Great stars in the series but some poor acting.
Published 1 month ago by Jflem
5.0 out of 5 stars
A wonderful trip down memory lane...
I was so happy to be able to see the Kent Chronicles, again. Finding them in DVD format made it possible to see a great story with memorable acting.
Published 1 month ago by Joanne Kane
3.0 out of 5 stars
Really good beginning story
The Bastard was excellent but the Chronicles started to go down hill with the Rebela and totally died with the Seekers. The Seekers had a really terrible ending. Read more
Published 3 months ago by BLACKHAWK
5.0 out of 5 stars
Kent Chronicles on DVD
Excellent video and fantastic history behind all the events that were shown. Great for preparing for history in various classes based on history.
Published 3 months ago by Thomas Carr
5.0 out of 5 stars
Love it
I read the books a long time ago. It was nice to see it as a movie. Thanks so much
Published 3 months ago by Mary Jo vonSchrenkel
5.0 out of 5 stars
The Kent Chronicles
The Bastard, The Rebels and the Seekers are only the first 3 books that were written by John Jakes that were made into movies. Read more
Published 3 months ago by Eleanor Cardinale
5.0 out of 5 stars
Takes me back to my early teens.
I remember watching this trilogy when I was just hitting puberty. One of Kim Catrall's early pieces of work and oh how good she looked. Read more
Published 3 months ago by jtru4U
5.0 out of 5 stars
Good mini-series
I have been looking for this series for a long time. Just like a remember it. A good mini series with an all-star cast. Read more
Published 4 months ago by Jane
