Civil War documentary heads up DVD releases

These new-to-DVD television programs are led by a documentary about African-Americans' wartime contributions, Orson Welles doing Shakespeare and one of the greatest sitcom episodes of all time.

"For Love of Liberty: The Story of America's Black Patriots" (Vivendi, 2010, two discs, $19.93). This stirring four-hour history, as the title suggests, covers America's various battles for freedom from the Revolutionary War forward, told from the point of view of black Americans.

The aim is to be eye-opening with regard to black participation in these wars, despite bigotry on every side. And that goal is accomplished quite quickly. Within its opening minutes, you'll be caught up in the power of this story.

There have been so many documentaries and films on similar subjects that you might feel you've seen it all, but there are moments here that will surprise, shock and disappoint, as well as sequences that engender elation. It's an emotional powerhouse that informs as it provides rousing entertainment in the best documentary tradition.

Primarily composed of first-person accounts read by an incredible array of big-name stars — Morgan Freeman, Louis Gossett Jr., Alfre Woodard, Robert Duvall, Ossie Davis, Ruby Dee, James Garner … far too many to name here — the film unfolds with paintings, drawings, photos, early motion-picture footage and re-creations. Halle Berry is the host, Avery Brooks narrates and Colin Powell provides an introduction.

Extras: widescreen, two episodes, deleted scenes, archival footage (dating back to 1898), music video

"Orson Welles: King Lear: The Historic Omnibus Production" (E1, 1953, b/w, $29.98). Welles has the title role in this adaptation of Shakespeare's play, his portrayal of the beleaguered king earning a place among the greatest performances of the Bard captured on video.

True, this is an abbreviated version (73 minutes), explained dutifully by host Alistair Cooke, but the primary story is intact and the fact that it was performed live, without interruptions, adds a level of excitement and electricity. Welles dominates the show, and he's magnificent, even when minor flubs occur or other actors aren't quite up to his level.

Despite the primitive trappings and the recording being a kinescope, this show demonstrates that the play's the thing — but it can receive a tremendous boost from a commanding star.

Extras: full frame, vintage featurettes, trailer; 16-page booklet