He is the quintessential American hero - a man who has transformed this nation through ideas and action that improved the lives of millions of Americans and shook up American politics. Yet his face, even his name, few woul... more »d recognize. At 89, John Gardner may be the most important and influential public figure never to write his memoirs or have his biography told - until now. John Gardner: Uncommon American, a powerful one-hour documentary narrated by Richard Dreyfus, chronicles the remarkable career of John Gardner, an "establishment" man who took on the establishment to build a better country. Called the "ultimate builder of ideas, people, and causes," he played an instrumental role in a vast array of enterprises: campaign finance reform, education reform, civil rights enforcement, Medicare, public television, volunteer action, and community renewal. For the first time, the film compiles footage that tells the story of the unique relationship between President Johnson, practical politician, and Gardner, idea man. Johnson's appointment of Gardner as the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare in July 1965 began one of the most productive - and complicated - partnerships in the history of American presidency. At a time when the core values of the American experience are being put to the test every day, the life and lessons of John Gardner are more relevant now than ever. John Gardner: Uncommon American is the powerful story of how one person can make a difference.« less
