Gods and Generals (2003)

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1. 

   KuroSawWhat

   Gods in Generals is a difficult film to classify. While it is a drama, it almost entirely lacks any kind of narrative. While it is a history picture, you don't learn much from it. The movie is exceptionally well directed, produced and acted, and it held my attention for all of its over 3 and a half hours. Yet, it wasn't especially compelling or recommendable.
   
   What we're given in Gods in Generals is a long series of Civil War vignettes, from the South's point of view, and starring a recurring set of historical figures--notably, Generals Jackson & Lee. All of it is presented with great historical accuracy and was shot on location. I'm sure Civil War reenactment societies will get a huge thrill out of it.
   
   For a general audience, though, the film is downright confusing. It jumps from one battle, or location, or battalion, or story, to another with no warnings and no transitions, except a caption at the bottom of the screen which tells us who and when this is. Unless you really know your Civil War history, you'll be utterly lost.
   
   If you've got a lot of time to kill, it can be a good watch, but do know what you're getting into. It's not an action flick, nor a compelling drama. It's very nearly stock footage for a History channel special. 9 years 6 months ago

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