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Instead of focusing on a singular moment (as in "Gettysburg"), the film tries too hard to squeeze that much history into a slightly shorter timeframe. As far as the movies themselves, "Gettysburg" is by far the better film. (This was somewhat true at Fredericksburg, though, and that particular battle is quite fair to history). Regarding the content, let me say first that the special features on both discs are impressive. "Gettysburg" will long stand as the far better movie, as "Gods & Generals" might have attempted to overachieve, but they are wonderful as educational tools and standards for military history cinema that will not soon fade away. (Since it has both discs in one normal case, it will not take up any additional room on your shelf. Thomas Howell, Kevin Conway, and Sam Elliot.
There is certainly also much more Confederate content, as the Union side is almost treated as a background player. Not only is this a tremendous bargain, but they are wonderful films as well. I would like to add, though, that the opening sequence alone is worth picking up this film. In some action sequences, the Union losses are exaggerated to comparative invincibility on the Confederate side. First of all, this is an amazing value for the price. Considering the tide of the war, as well as the timeline to that point, though, this is somewhat forgivable.
For a very slight increase in price (at last check), you can own both films with a grand total of over eight hours of footage (likely more than nine with all of the various extras). While we are introduced to more Confederate personalities than Union, there is equal screen time given to both sides. As the main dramatic thrust comes from the Confederates (climaxing with Pickett's Charge near the end of the film), it is understandable why more would be known and shown from their standpoint. Not only do you get "Gettysburg," which runs over 4 hours in length, but you also receive "Gods & Generals," which is an additional three-and-a-half hours. There is the same attention to detail and accuracy that made "Gettysburg" so great, but it is nearly lost to the overwhelming slant that the film contains.
Allow me, though, to comment on the nature of the discs themselves and a brief summary of the content therein. (Fuqua's makeup wasn't extraordinarily convincing, but otherwise, not a bad J.E.B. Additionally, the movie definitely has a certain Confederate slant to it. Overall, I highly recommend this dual collection. There are some amazing performances on both sides of the blue and gray, particularly Richard Jordan's last role, Stephen Lang, Jeff Daniels, Tom Berenger, Martin Sheen, C. The main reason why I could not give this review five stars was for the shortcomings of "Gods & Generals." Still, that should not hamper your purchase of this amazing collection.
Mary Fahl's haunting and moving song "Going Home" is set against a backdrop of various flags of regiments from both sides of the conflict. What I also appreciated greatly was the equal treatment that each side is given. In fact, it's hard to point out any poor performances at all.
The recreation down to the finest detail was exemplary and a standard by which all historical films should follow. I disagree with the decrying that is done over "Gods & Generals," though, but I have to concede a few points. There are no deleted scenes that I recall, but there are some great documentaries, maps, interviews, and bios for each movie. As I said, the opening credits alone are worth viewing. Additionally, the construction of said case will prevent the discs from sliding about and scratching on each other. Still, Maxwell treats both sides fairly and with equal emotion. Granted, the story mainly revolves around Stonewall Jackson and his career in the war, but even major players like Lee are nearly glossed over, despite strong performances (including Robert Duvall's as the aforementioned Lee).
Stuart). When combined with the special features (interviews, documentaries, etc)., you have well over eight hours of Civil War film in one slender DVD case. I have yet to have any problems with either disc in removing or replacing it from it's holder, as well). (Supposedly, the final book in the Shaara trilogy, "The Last Full Measure," takes on the Union side more so than this film, but it remains to be seen whether or not that will ever be made). Though this equality in treatment is not carried through the film, the sequence itself is spellbinding and emotionally charged. Since many of you reading this are likely familiar with the movies themselves, or the stories therein, I will refrain from repeating them here (as so many other reviewers have already done). Perhaps most noticeable is the fact that instead of one battle, G&G spans two years almost and several key battles.
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