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Poster for Friendly Persuasion

Friendly Persuasion

Seen it?

1956 | 137 min | Drama, War

Saturday Specialearly rating

Why it’s a Saturday Special

It earned strong reviews (80% on Rotten Tomatoes) and it drew serious awards attention. A strong pick for the weekend.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for history buffs. If you loved Paths of Glory, start here. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
The mood
Intense.
The pace
Takes its time with its characters, at 2 hr 17 min.
What might put you off
  • Made in 1956: an older pace and style.
  • Audiences were cooler on it than critics.

The story of a family of Quakers in Indiana in 1862. Their religious sect is strongly opposed to violence and war. It's not easy for them to meet the rules of their religion in everyday life but when Southern troops pass the area they are in real trouble. Should they fight, despite their peaceful attitude?

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsStrong

    80% on Rotten Tomatoes

  • AudiencesSolid

    6.7 out of 10

  • AwardsStrong

    Won 1 Cannes award: Palme d'Or. Also nominated for 5 Oscars and 1 Golden Globe. Plus 1 other award.

  • Box office & staying powerSolid

    $8 million worldwide on a $3 million budget; still draws a steady audience long after release

  • Buzz & cultural impactSolid

    About 49K people sought it out in the past year

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by William Wyler

  • Gary CooperJess Birdwell
  • Dorothy McGuireEliza Birdwell
  • Anthony PerkinsJosh Birdwell
  • Richard EyerLittle Jess Birdwell
  • Robert MiddletonSam Jordan
  • Phyllis LoveMattie Birdwell
  • Peter Mark RichmanGardner 'Gard' Jordan
  • Walter CatlettProfessor Quigley
  • Richard HalePurdy
  • Joel FluellenEnoch