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Rating:  - Gettysburg DVD Review
My wife and I had previously seen this historical accounting some time ago. We visited the Battlefield in early November - the first for her and
the second time for me. Like most return visits to anywhere, one discovers additional knowledge. The movie became an almost necessity
following our visit of which I gave it to my wife as a Christmas
present. The movie is exceptional accounting of the battle and a must for
our library.
Rating:  - Video of Gettysburg
For those whe are interested in the American Civil War this is the wonderful movie to watch because it accurately follows Michael Shaara's book Killer Angels, a book that American historians have praised.
Rating:  - could have been better
Movie was slow. The amount of film used could have been about half and been more entertaining. Lee was shown in a negative light, and no mention of General Custer heading off J.E.B. Stuart as he headed for Gettysburg. Otherwise an adequate use of time.
Rating: - Minor flaws, generally fine
I didn't know that the soldiers were able to get their uniforms to a 24 hour laundry service to be ready for the next battle. Not a wrinkle or scuff mark on any uniform. Alot of bonding, many philosopical interludes, even while battle lines are being formed. Though, if actual Civil war diaries are a guide, the "foot soldier" was a literate individual, a "student" of war. This motif is therefore, realistic; though the synthetic soundtrack doesn't help. At times, it sounds like outtakes from the "Rocky IV" sessions.
The script mentions 15 thousand here and 20 thousand there, and all we see are the same 160 guys huffing and puffing. Reviewers have criticized the unrealistic look of the "Re-enactors", but I understand that the Southern army did include many participants who did not fit the image, so to speak, because of the necessities of maintaining reasonable numbers. Although, I assumed that to be later in the War.
The script seems to be overly slanted towards the Military historian, as the constant references to flanks, infantry, cavalry, brigades, moving within specific battleplans, gets almost comical, which is not respectful to our Country's signature battle.
In the ending credits, it is written that the Battle was a (relative) failure. Some of the most interesting sections involve dialogue with the Generals regarding the potential of such a battle to actually end the War.
Very interesting montage at the end credits where actor and actual person come together. A bit crass but effective.
I thought that perhaps a graphic of The Gettysburg Address could have closed the film, though the Brothers embarcing was well done.
A very positive aspect of this film is the Gettysburg location itself. The movie begins and ends on the battlefield.
Rating: - When will extended version be available
Gettsbug's Collectors Edition in 1993 had 17 additional minutes. This should be available on dvd.
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