It looks like the DVD of the Geraldine Page film in 1985 is out of print! They have it on Amazon, but it's pricey. There is a full frame version of the movie (probably taken from the VHS, since the DVD was in widescreen) on YouTube in numbered sections.
Both versions are wonderful for very different reasons. Tyson was quieter and more subdued than Page. Both approaches to the character are valid and moving-its open to interpretation. The 1985 film felt more ethereal to me and the 2014 version felt more organic.
I think seeing Carrie as African American opens up a lot more subtext. I wondered what Jessie Mae and Ludies life was like-were they struggling because of their race and limited opportunities?
I agree Page was incredible but Tyson brings as much to the table as Page.
"The sexual energy between the mother and son really concerns me!"-random woman behind me at Next to Normal
"I want to meet him after and bang him!"-random woman who exposed her breasts at Rock of Ages, referring to James Carpinello
I first experienced Cicely Tyson's talents when I saw "Sounder" as a teen. 40 years later, I'm still in awe of her dramatic gifts. Another great performance in "Trip." Wish I had caught it on Broadway last season.