Watch The Kent Chronicles

The Kent Chronicles is a historical drama series that was first released in 1978. The show is set in the late 18th century, during the American Revolution, and follows the lives of the Kent family as they navigate the tumultuous political and social landscape of the time.

The story centers around young Phillip Kent, who is forced to flee England after getting into a brawl with a Royal Navy officer. He settles in America and becomes involved in the revolutionary cause. Along the way, he meets and falls in love with a young woman named Anne, and the two of them must navigate a complex web of political and personal conflicts.

The show is based on a series of novels by John Jakes, and it captures the spirit and drama of the American Revolution in a compelling way. The overarching theme of the show is the struggle for freedom and the complexities of loyalty, love, and family in a time of upheaval.

The acting in The Kent Chronicles is excellent, and the cast includes a number of notable actors such as Andrew Stevens, Tom Bosley, and Patricia Neal. The costumes and sets are also well-done, and the show has a polished, cinematic feel that sets it apart from other historical dramas of the time.

One of the strengths of the show is its portrayal of the complex political and social dynamics of the American Revolution. The Kent family includes both loyalists and patriots, and the show does a good job of exploring the motivations and beliefs of each character. The series also delves into issues such as slavery, class conflict, and the tension between American colonists and their British overlords.

The Kent Chronicles is a long and ambitious show, spanning the course of several years and numerous historical events. It covers the battles of Lexington and Concord, the signing of the Declaration of Independence, and the British surrender at Yorktown, among other major events. Despite its length, however, the show never feels slow or boring. The pacing is brisk and the story is always engaging.

One thing that sets The Kent Chronicles apart from other historical dramas is its focus on family and personal relationships. The show explores the dynamic between Phillip and his father, as well as the complex relationship between Phillip and Anne. There are also several compelling secondary characters, including an enslaved woman named Grady who becomes involved in the revolutionary cause, and a ruthless British officer named Major John André.

Overall, The Kent Chronicles is a well-crafted historical drama that captures the spirit and drama of the American Revolution. Its focus on family and personal relationships sets it apart from other shows of its kind, while its exploration of complex political and social issues adds depth and nuance to the story. Despite being over 40 years old, the show still holds up as a compelling and engaging piece of television history.