AVERAGE

In 1932, Franklin Roosevelt (Edward Herrman) is elected U.S. President, but due to his polio, it is Eleanor (Jane Alexander) who becomes his eyes and ears during journeys across the Depression-stricken country.

This sequel follows the Roosevelts throughout FDR’s four terms in the White House, deepening the portrait of their marital challenges. Worthy and interesting, but never as profound as one would’ve hoped for, as the suffering of the Depression and World War II takes a toll.

There’s a lot going on in the world and in their lives, but the drama is handled a little too generically. 

1977-U.S. 240 min. Color. Directed by Daniel Petrie. Teleplay: James Costigan. Book: Joseph P. Lash. Music: John Barry. Cast: Edward Herrmann (Franklin D. Roosevelt), Jane Alexander (Eleanor Roosevelt), Priscilla Pointer (Marguerite Missy LeHand), Walter McGinn, Rosemary Murphy, Blair Brown… Mark Harmon. 

Trivia: Originally shown in two parts.

Emmys: Outstanding Special, Directing.