The War Widow

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The War Widow
GenreDrama
Written by Harvey Perr
Directed by Paul Bogart
Starring Pamela Bellwood
Frances Lee McCain
Tim Matheson
Maxine Stuart
Nan Martin
Music by Mark Snow
Country of originUnited States
Original languageEnglish
Production
Producer Barbra Schultz
Editor Roy Stewart
Running time85 minutes
Production company KCET
Original release
Network PBS
ReleaseOctober 28, 1976 (1976-10-28)

The War Widow is a 1976 television film directed by Paul Bogart and starring Pamela Bellwood, Frances Lee McCain, Tim Matheson, Maxine Stuart, and Nan Martin. It was the first lesbian love story on mainstream American television.

Contents

It was originally broadcast by KCET, Los Angeles (a PBS affiliate) on their dramatic showcase series, Visions , which showcased new writers. It was the second in the Visions series. Harvey Perr was a playwright. [1]

Premise

The film is set during World War I. Amy is a proper but lonely housewife whose husband is away at war. She finds solace in a friendship with a more worldly female photographer, only to have her life turned upside down when the friendship becomes genuine love and she is forced to choose.

Reception

The New York Times called it "impressive drama". [2]

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References

  1. 'War Widow' a Dark Gem Los Angeles Times (1923-1995); Los Angeles, Calif. [Los Angeles, Calif]28 Oct 1976: e21.
  2. TV: Fine Drama About Lesbians: 'The War Widow,' by Harvey Perr, Will Be on Public Television's 'Visions' Series Tonight By JOHN J. O'CONNOR. New York Times 28 Oct 1976: 65