The film's main misstep, however, is its unconvincing use of celebrity voices to re-create various speeches and letters... Though well-intended, their inclusion proves a needless distraction in an otherwise smart and dignified presentation.
50
Slant Magazine
Slant Magazine
The documentary is dressed to the nines in pomp and patriotism, which seems meant to hide the fact that the film offers very little in the way of valuable reporting or insider information.
A bit overstuffed with history and tales of perseverance, the film doesn’t have room for balanced political analysis or even exposition at times. It’s an omission that feels like a missed opportunity, but maybe that will be resolved in the next installment.
Not much room for controversy here, and certainly none for counterargument, this is prime-time TV history rendered as a soothing, Papa Bear bedtime story.
50
Washington PostMichael O'Sullivan
Washington PostMichael O'Sullivan
The Prime Ministers: The Pioneers is hampered by a static structure that relies too heavily on a single voice.
40
Arizona RepublicKerry Lengel
Arizona RepublicKerry Lengel
Among the many historical documentaries on Israel there are to choose from, this one is tantamount to two hours of footnotes.
30
Village VoiceDiana Clarke
Village VoiceDiana Clarke
This particular rendition of a history often told is little more than propaganda.