In the 1980's I moved to Big Shanty (now Kennesaw), Georgia, living very near where that fatal stop for breakfast was made at the Lacy Hotel. I was delighted to find that the little museum that housed the real "General" locomotive also had a copy of "The Great Locomotive Chase" that it screened on rare occasions. Despite the faded and scratchy 16mm print, I renewed my acquaintance with the story and appreciated the film's fine production values, direction, and performances. Since then, I've become familiar with the the drama that took place practically in my back yard.
I'm delighted that Anchor Bay has re-released "The Great Locomotive Chase" with a quality print on DVD so I, my children and grandchildren can enjoy it together for years to come. My one wish is that the company would consider adding enhancements to future editions. For example, how interesting it would be to have Fess Parker's film commentary, or an interview recorded with him, while he is still with us. Contemporary memorabilia is available in Georgia for background features, as are local people who worked on the production. Still, the film is fine all by itself, and I recommend it as worthy of being in your collection.
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Anchor Bay, as usual, has given us a DVD that is beautiful to look at, with only a few areas where the age of the film is apparent. This is widescreen and I can't imagine watching this film any other way. The sound is pretty much what you would expect for a 1956 release.
Fess Parker and Jeffrey Hunter are fine as the lead protagonists, with Jeff York also registering as one of Andrews' Raiders who would rather fight, than follow the "cloak and dagger" routine. Of course, York played Mike Fink--"King of the River"--opposite Fess Parker's Davy Crockett.
This movie is a dream for railroad buffs--old steam trains still provide a thrill for many people. It is also noteworthy for people interested in the civil war, being based on actual events, although I suspect history scholars might find it too superficial. However, the purpose of this movie is to entertain fans of all ages--not to get bogged down in too much detail.
Parents should find this movie a delight to watch with their children, especially young boys. The plot is not complicated--there is plenty of action--and while shots are fired, and some fists fly, there is none of the more graphic violence that today's films seem to wallow in.
Like other reviewers, I would have liked some "extras". Comments from Fess Parker--now a successful California wine-maker--added a lot to Disney's Davy Crockett collection. Mr. Parker's memories of this film would have been a nice plus. Sadly, Jeffrey Hunter passed away at a young age, during the 1960s.Perhaps some day there will be a "deluxe" edition from Disney--but, in the mean time, we must thank Anchor Bay for giving us this highly watchable version.
Again, recommended viewing for the whole family.
