UncleOmar Review of Salem Witch Trials

Salem Witch Trials (2002 TV Movie)

Historically interesting, and contrasted with Miller's allusions ... spoiler? I don't think so.

[13 March 2010]

I looked this up on IMDb because I found a DVD copy in the discount bin, and wanted to know if it was worth the $4 ... I've been greatly interested in this period of history since I first saw The Crucible on stage, and also because one of my ancestors (Susannah North Martin) was hanged as a witch at Salem. I might guess that the above critiques that compared The Crucible (movie, not play, apparently) in any manner are perhaps not remembering that Miller's opus was an allegory for the McCarthy hearings during the Red Scare of the early 1950s, so Miller may have, in fact, taken some literary liberties with facts that could have been documented. (In his defense, I would suggest that the research done since his play was produced (and that story probably stimulated a lot of the research) has answered a great number of questions, and perhaps clarified inaccuracies presented, regardless of their sources.) I missed seeing this on TV when it ran, and since the above reviews generally are favorable, I will definitely be going back to the discount bin to purchase a copy. I expect that I have often spent money more foolishly, and at worst I will be able to pass a few hours enjoying the entertainment aspect of the story line. It will give me one more chance to glean background information on my family and their times. (BTW, Cotton Mather's alleged comment, which suggested that even though their guilt may have been in doubt, the court should "hang them anyway" has etched his place in history near the bottom of the garbage pile, regardless of his later recanting of the sentiment.)