NOW AVAILABLE ON DVD FOR THE FIRST TIME
Directed by: Herb E. Smith
1973
Running Time: 29:00
Color
The Old Regular Baptist Church is one of the oldest denominations in the Appalachian mountains, and its followers cherish its traditional practices and its sense of everlasting values in a changing world. Widespread only among mountain people, this religion is uniquely a product of Appalachian culture. In The Good Old Fashioned Way captures the spirit and faith of the people of this church and the impact of their religion on their lives. The film documents a riverside baptism, foot-washing ceremonies, an Association Meeting, the music of the church, and Memorial Services held at a family cemetery.
Reviews
"An exemplary educational resource for those interested in religion, ritual, and culture." -John H. Westerhoff, III, Professor of Religion and Education, Duke University Divinity School
"An unassuming, uncritical and enthusiastic first-hand view of grassroots Protestantism for audiences in public libraries, religious institutions, and anthropology and comparative religion classes." -Booklist
"I used it for an introductory class in religious studies to provide a thought-provoking background for the discussion of varieties of religious expression. It was superb." -Gilbert L. Johnston, Comparative Cultures Collegium, Eckerd College
"Breaks down the negative stereotype of the fundamentalist....Excellent for discussion of the beauty of the spoken word as its language is both simple and elegant." -Joan Boyd Short, Powell Valley High School, Big Stone Gap, Virginia
Screenings & Festivals
American Film Festival--Finalist
Conference on Visual Anthropology, Temple University
International Festival de Cinema/Figueira da Foz, Portugal
National Film Theatre, British Film Institute
Pacific Film Archive
Robert Flaherty Film Seminar
