Near 12 hour mini-series feels more an educational text than a cinematic or dramatic offering, but it does provide a very thorough and engaging portrait of the multi-generational Adams family and their impact on the early days of America (especially for those of us whose knowledge is a little spotty!) At its best in the first half, with Grizzard's terrific incarnation centre stage; loses steam during the later generations without his powerful presence, becoming a little dreary and repetitive.