The film, which was written by Dayton Duncan (COUNTRY MUSIC, THE NATIONAL PARKS) and produced by David Schmidt (THE VIETNAM WAR) and Ken Burns, examines the life and work of one of America’s most influential figures – a prolific writer and publisher, a world-renowned diplomat, a revolutionary scientist and inventor, and a signer of both the United States Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.
Franklin was everything but conventional. His life has been regarded as a perfect American storey. Franklin’s 84 years encompassed virtually the entire 18th century, a time marked by revolutionary development in science, technology, literature, politics, and governance, all of which he aided. He built America’s first public library, a volunteer fire company, and an academy that would later become the University of Pennsylvania. “Poor Richard’s Almanack,” his annual publication, set a precedent for future humorists like Mark Twain and contained maxims that are still part of our shared language. And one of his most important discoveries, the lightning rod, sprang from his famed experiments with electricity.
Franklin was full of inconsistencies, despite his commitment to the Enlightenment principles of improving himself, his community, and mankind as a whole. He could be humorous yet philosophical, folksy yet unforgiving, generous yet calculating, and open-minded yet bigoted. Franklin enslaved individuals and did not become an abolitionist until late in life, which is unusual for a man associated with independence and individual liberty. At least six people were enslaved in the Franklin home, including Peter, Jemima, Othello, George, John, and King. The Pennsylvania Gazette, Franklin’s newspaper, also marketed the sale of enslaved individuals and published reports of runaways. While he publicly condemned white settlers who killed Indigenous people indiscriminately, he advocated for the extension of white colonies onto Indigenous grounds.
Franklin’s voice is provided by actor Mandy Patinkin. Burns described Patinkin’s performance as “distinctive and sublime,” stating that Patinkin’s voice and timing appear to precisely represent Franklin, finding just the appropriate sense of humour.
Is “Benjamin Franklin” on Hulu?
“Benjamin Franklin” will not be available to stream on Hulu. Best alternatives: Oculus, Fresh.
Is “Benjamin Franklin” on Netflix?
“Benjamin Franklin” won’t be dropping on Netflix. Best flick: Love, Life & Everything IN Between.
Is “Benjamin Franklin” on Prime Video?
“Benjamin Franklin” will not be seen on the streaming platform Prime Video. Best movies: The Boys, Alias.
Is “Benjamin Franklin” on HBO Max?
“Benjamin Franklin” will not release on HBO Max. Some best choices: War, The Rite.
Is “Benjamin Franklin” on PBS?
PBS will premiere BENJAMIN FRANKLIN on April 4, 2022.
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