10/10
A classic finally gets its due!
11 August 2005
Warning: Spoilers
For years it has amazed me that this film was not available on DVD, and now I see Fox has come around to correcting that mistake--bravo! Now the glorious CinemaScope picture can be enjoyed along with the note-perfect score by Alfred Newman and the amazing performance of Richard Todd.

"A Man Called Peter" charts the true story of Peter Marshall, a Scottish immigrant who became a nationally-known Presbyterian pastor in the US and eventually found himself chaplain of the US Senate. But don't let those accomplishments fool you--the story of Peter Marshall is, in its own words, the story of "one man's friendship with God," nothing more and nothing less. Not that it's a syrupy, sugar-coated look at faith, however. "A Man Called Peter" deals with the realities of life and the questions we often find ourselves asking, particularly with regards to suffering. It doesn't shirk these issues, doesn't provide pat answers...it just demonstrates Peter Marshall's simple trust in the one he called "The Chief."

One of the amazing things about "A Man Called Peter" is its attention to Dr. Marshall's amazing gift for preaching. Quite a bit of time is spent on his sermon material,expertly delivered by Richard Todd. The December 7th, 1941 scene is particularly moving. Overall, the sincerity of Peter Marshall's faith is evident, both in the highs and lows of his life. And despite his premature passing, the film still manages to end on a stirring note of hope. "See you in the morning" is a phrase that will never be the same for you after watching this film.

After Peter's death, Catherine Marshall had a dream she was visiting him in heaven, where she told him she was contemplating writing a book about his life. In the dream Peter said to her, "Go ahead and write it, Kate. Let the world know a man can love God and not be a sissy!" The movie version of "A Man Called Peter" demonstrates that with class, top-notch performances, and a heart sadly missing from many films today.

"A Man Called Peter" is a classic--and now it's available in the only format that can do it justice. I can't wait to experience it for the first time all over again!
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