The Donner Party

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Kenneth T A very human tale, told with compassion and touching narration. The Donner Party has long been considered by many to be simply a sensational tale focussed on cannibalism. Ric Burns has carefully explored the deeper currents of this story: trust, betrayal, desperation, and the innocence and naïveté of our shared human condition. While experiencing this film, one will almost certainly wrestle with an introspection: "what would I do if I found myself in such desperate straits?" "The Donner Party" is a poignant tale of survival, of honor and dishonor, and eventual redemption and rescue. Beautifully presented with many first person accounts, in typical "Burnsian" fashion, one may be able to put aside preconceptions and judgement. There is an emergence from this finely crafted work which can afford the viewer a fuller sense of humanity- for self and for others. That in the end is a superb accomplishment. I highly recommend this gem. Rated 5/5 Stars •  Rated 5 out of 5 stars 11/13/25 Full Review Read all reviews

The Donner Party

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