This highly acclaimed drama, based on the epic novel by Ernest J. Gaines, eloquently covers the story of the American Experience – from the Civil War to the civil rights movement – all told from the memories of a 110-year-old former slave (Cicely Tyson), Miss Jane Pittman. Her recollections are the result of an interview conducted by a New York Journalist at Jane Pittman's home in Bayonne, Louisiana in February 1962, a place only just touched by the spread of the civil rights movement.

Made for American TV in 1974 and featuring a superb central performance from Cicely Tyson as Jane, the film was the big Emmy award winner of the year, landing Best Directing in Drama for John Korty, Best Lead Actress in a Drama for Tyson, Best Music Composition - For a Special Program for Fred Karlin, Best Writing in Drama - Adaptation for Tracy Keenan Wynn, Outstanding Achievement in Costume Design for Bruce Walkup and Sandra Stewart, Outstanding Achievement in Makeup for Stan Winston and the legendary Rick Baker, Outstanding Special - Comedy or Drama and Actress of the Year - Special for Tyson.

The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman will be released on UK DVD by Metrodome on 18th August 2008 at the RRP of £15.99. No news yet on extra features, but given the year of production and that it was made for TV, a 4:3 transfer is to be expected.