The Murder of Mary Phagan (1988)

Very disappointing...

Excellent but underrated film

This story has more twists and turns than a second-rate soap opera.

The film creates a perfect balance between action and depth of basic needs, in the midst of an infertile atmosphere.

Jack Lemmon stars in this TV telling of a true incident in our history. When a young lady is killed, her employer (Peter Gallagher) is accused, because of circumstantial evidence, supposedly true testimony of others implicating him, his ladies man reputation, but mostly because he is a Yankee and a Jew in the South. He is given a trial, which isn't quite a fair one. When the sentence is hanging until death and a pardon from the Governor is possible, Governor Jack Lemmon feels the prisoner was given a bum deal, considering the community's prejudice and has qualms about letting the man hang. He goes on his own crusade and investigation to delve deeper into the story. Jack Lemmon has never given a bad performance, and in fact, everyone was very good in their role, especially Dutton in his memorable role. This was a very educational, involved and thoughtful film. "They Won't Forget" with Claude Rains and Lana Turner was another film about this, but that was a loose telling of the story, as it took place in a school setting instead a workplace. I've seen it, and it stands on its own as a good example of hard-hitting drama and movie-making if not totally accurate to the basic facts. After seeing this version though, you may not want to see the older version, as this puts the characters and their feelings first rather than serving their problems up for your entertainment.

Leo Frank was born in Cuero, Texas on April 17, 1884, but his family soon moved to Brooklyn, NY, where he attended Pratt Institute; he was graduated from Cornell University in 1906 with a B.S. degree in mechanical engineering.In 1908, he became the head of a pencil factory in Atlanta started by his uncle Moses Frank. He married Lucille Selig, a local girl, in November of 1910.Mary Phagan had been employed at the National Pencil Co for a little over a year. She returned for her $1.20 pay that Saturday (because of the holiday) and was never seen again alive. At almost 14 years of age, she earned $4.05 for a 55-hr. week.One of the many puzzles is why Newt Lee, the watchman at the factory, was sent away when he first reported for duty on April 26, 1913. His schedule had been set the day before by Mr. Frank.Some new documents have begun to surface on this case, and they can be viewed at: www.leofrankcase.com. To this day, no one knows what eventually happened to Jim Conley, who was last sighted in 1941. Leo's lawyers found his testimony incredible and challenged his character and truthfulness, but he was able to stay employed for over two years.This mini-series is available on VHS tape, and hopefully will be re- released on DVD. It is definitely worth a viewing.

I feel this movie is exceptional in the true life account of the death of little Mary Phagan. It truly depicts the working of children in factories prior to child labor laws. It shows the poverty of the time. It depicts how the lack of education and open mindedness can lead people to do deeds not in line with their professed beliefs. It depicts various cultures and shows how everyone can enjoy music, dance, celebrate and enjoy life. And, that life goes on even after great tragedy. It shows how little children are influenced by adults out of fear. It depicts the lack of forensic science now used to solve crime. My father was a child laborer; so, this picture is of great interest to me in learning more about the long hours and little pay he earned during that time period. A great historical epic worth every minute that no one interested in U.S. history should miss.

george stevens ,jr. always does quality things as was this. william hale,ii was super leading the plot to climax of theme and drew out best in characters. since the initial showing i have heard many others express their opinion that this was a super presentation. congrats george and billy hale and the fine extras cast of richmond,va. area.