As told through flashback, this is the story of of a poor farming family that leaves Quebec at the turn of the century to work in the mills of power. Once there they discover Dickensian working conditions that force many to struggle against the mill's owners, the church and an America that is not the pot-of-gold promised to new immigrants. This film will appeal to anyone interested in Franco-American history or minority language issues in the Americas. It also offers a window from which to view the roots of Quebec nationalism. The acting is superb and the cinematography is above par for a mini series. But the length of this mini, compounded by what is a sad history, presented with less than developed characters will make it a rough ride for others. Also worth noting: Jack Kerouac was born of this legacy in the French New England textile community of Lowell Massachusates(although the series makes no mention of him).
