1776
Colonial representatives gather in Philadelphia with the aim of establishing a set of governmental rules for the burgeoning United States. Benjamin Franklin and John Adams charge Thomas Jefferson with the task of writing a statement announcing the new country's emancipation from British rule.
Critics Sentiment
Rutledge performs 'Molasses to Rum' denouncing Northern hypocrisy
Thomas Jefferson struggles with writer's block for full week
The film jumps dramatically from Jefferson's comedic writer's block sequence to Martha Jefferson's charming arrival, as critics found the sexual humor dated but loved Blythe Danner's performance.
Critics praised 1776 as an intelligent historical musical that successfully humanized the founding fathers while maintaining historical accuracy. The film's strongest moments came during the congressional debates and musical numbers, particularly John Cullum's 'Molasses to Rum,' though some found the pacing uneven and certain comedic elements dated. Overall, reviewers appreciated the film's ability to create dramatic tension from a known historical outcome.
Full cast
Showing 20 of 25
William Daniels
John Adams
Howard Da Silva
Dr. Benjamin Franklin
Ken Howard
Thomas Jefferson
Blythe Danner
Martha Jefferson
Donald Madden
John Dickinson (PA)
John Cullum
Edward Rutledge (SC)
David Ford
Congressional President John Hancock (MA)
Ron Holgate
Richard Henry Lee (VA)
Emory Bass
James Wilson (PA)
Virginia Vestoff
Abigail Adams
William Hansen
Caesar Rodney (DE)
Roy Poole
Stephen Hopkins (RI)
Ray Middleton
Col. Thomas McKean (DE)
Stephen Nathan
Courier
Ralston Hill
Charles Thomson
William Duell
Andrew McNair
James Noble
Rev. John Witherspoon (NJ)
Howard Caine
Lewis Morris (NY)
Peter Forster
Oliver Wolcott (CT)
John Myhers
Robert Livingston
Crew
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