77
Metascore
8 reviews · Provided by Metacritic.com
- 100TV Guide MagazineTV Guide MagazineThis landmark TV-movie brings history to vivid life, never sacrificing moving personal drama to score sociological or political points.
- 90Los Angeles TimesHoward RosenbergLos Angeles TimesHoward RosenbergThe history of slavery was vividly relived through the memories of a fictional 110-year-old woman beautifully played by Cicely Tyson in a story adapted for TV by Tracy Keenan Wynn and directed by John Korty. The climactic scene, when Miss Jane defiantly drank from a "whites-only" water fountain, was one of TV's most memorable moments in one of TV's most memorable movies. [23 Apr 1989, p.25]
- Miss Jane Pittman fulfilled my deepest expectations. I did not look for a miracle nor did I view it with malice. That the show will spawn another film depicting other blacks in other experiences is unquestioned. That it was a triumph of and for the enduring strength of black people is also beyond doubt.
- 88Orlando SentinelHal BoedekerOrlando SentinelHal BoedekerTyson rose to the challenges of this demanding role with perceptive, luminous work. It remains the peak of her long, distinguished career. [22 Feb 2009, p.10]
- 80New York Magazine (Vulture)New York Magazine (Vulture)Pittman's director, producer, and star have their hearts in movies, but they've made a TV film to be long remembered. [28 Jan 1974, p.58]
- 80Time OutTime OutWhile the cinematography has dated rather badly, the story and the performances of both Tyson and her supporting cast are more than powerful enough to make it worthwhile viewing. [04 Sep 2008, p.72]
- 70The New YorkerPauline KaelThe New YorkerPauline KaelTyson's performance and Korty's tact are more than enough to compensate for the flaws.
- 50Chicago ReaderDave KehrChicago ReaderDave KehrWell-intentioned tripe, directed with made-for-TV solemnity by John Korty.