Educational Media Reviews Online

Charlton Heston, best known for his heroic roles in films such as The Ten Commandments, Planet of the Apes, and Ben-Hur, is remembered in this biographical sketch (part of the retrospective Hollywood Collection series, broadcast on PBS and cable television channels). The program pays tribute to Heston’s “rugged individualism” and timelessness, tracing his interest in acting to an upbringing in a remote part of Michigan. Following his parents’ divorce, he moved to the suburbs of Chicago and entered the prestigious New Trier High School. Here his interest in performance took shape, leading to a drama program at Northwestern University—and to his wife of over 60 years, Lydia. At this time, exclusive contracts prohibited experienced actors’ involvement in the development of live television, thus opening the door to young freelance actors who were able to invent this new form of media and develop a following. Positioned to take advantage of this opportunity, Heston launched a career that was soon to be discovered and transformed by Cecil B. DeMille, who saw in Heston the potential for a “dynamic leading man”. Interviews with friends, fellow actors (such as Gregory Peck and Janet Leigh), and family members establish the further development of Heston’s illustrious career.

The production also gives a cursory overview of his at times contradictory public persona. (Because it was originally produced in 1995, it is unable to examine his controversial commentary regarding media conspiracy and cultural warfare during the later years of his life.) Several interview segments foreshadow his role as president and spokesman for the National Rifle Association from 1998 to 2003. Friends and colleagues express puzzlement and tenuous regret at his transition from civil rights advocate to conservative figurehead, but their disagreement is mild in keeping with the production’s reverent tone. In fact, younger viewers may be surprised to learn of Mr. Heston’s early involvement with the Civil Rights Movement and liberal politics.

Charlton Heston: For All Seasons serves as a gentle tribute rather than a comprehensive or probing documentary about the life and career of a controversial screen star. The quality of the DVD transfer is subpar (with occasional rolling / flickering). General audiences may find it fitting as a cursory introduction to this unconventional movie hero, thus this title is recommended with reservations for public library collections.