HBO's John Adams: A $100M Miniseries That Brings History to Life

HBO's seven-part miniseries John Adams used a reported $100 million budget to recreate the 18th century with striking detail. The 2008 series follows the life of the titular founder, portrayed by Paul Giamatti, and charts his rise from practicing lawyer in 1770 to the vice presidency in 1789 and ultimately the presidency.

Episodes move through public milestones and private struggles, including Adams' marriage to Abigail (Laura Linney) and his fraught relationships with figures such as George Washington (David Morse), Alexander Hamilton (Rufus Sewell), Benjamin Franklin (Tom Wilkinson) and John Hancock (Justin Theroux).

The final episode covers Adams' retirement, the presidency of his son John Quincy Adams (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), and his death on July 4, 1826. Attention to costume, set and prop details—down to Abigail's hair and the drafters' writing utensils—helps the series feel authentic and transported.

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