The original brat pack – John Adams, George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin – gets the chance to mingle and legislate in HBO’s new miniseries, “John Adams.” At 501 minutes, the seven-part series gives us the chance to see these historical figures as normal men with quirks, foibles and insecurities.

Great performances by Laura Linney and Paul Giamatti as Mr. and Mrs. Adams, as well as the always-terrific David Morse as George Washington, make John Adams both informative and engaging. Based on the book by David McCullough, the series works for those who know their history inside and out and also for those who like their history sweetened with the flavor of entertainment.

Grade: A

John Adams is currently available.