"Gods and Generals"

[MORTARDUDE]

Has anyone seen this ? I need some objective opinions before I invest 4 hours+ and $20+....The books were great, the reviews I have seen so far are very bad. It looks like Turner did it again....To me his movie "Gettysburg" was a real let down also.


Larry

[usmcsgt65]

I saw it today. The major plot line is "Stonewall" Jackson. It gives a good idea about the man, not the myth. Bull Run is quick, but Fredericksburg is an excellent account of Burnside's folly. Chancellorsville should have been better. There are many scenes with Jackson away from the front which in my view could have been shorten to portray the military Jackson. I went to the early show for only $5.50.

[Andy]

"Gods and Generals or more than I ever wanted to know about Stonewall". I'd think my southern brothers might like it because it is a piece that deals with pre-Gettysburg Civil War. A great rendition of The Bonnie Blue Flag might make a heart or two stir.
However 4 hours was just a tad too long, Longstreet's name is only mentioned once and it didn't seem like he played much of a role in the fighting at Fredricksburg.
If you really enjoyed the movie Gettysburg, this might be a bit of a let down. The movie is truer to Michael Shaara's novels than history. Rather than spend the $8.00, should have watch it when it comes out on HBO.
Special effects: in one fight scene you could see bayonets "wiggle" maybe made from plastic. at another point there was a brick building that was on fire, the fire was burning the face of the bricks, did they have napalm?

Stay healthy,
Andy
PS: I watched it in Hadley Mass. the birth place of General Hooker. Mentioned that during the half time break and no one seemed to know, or care.

[usmcsgt65]

It gives a well rounded idea about "Stonewall" Jackson. The battle scenes about Fredericksburg are excellent, and as close as Hollywood can make it. Bull Run and Chancellorsville are thin. Only Jackson's part of the battles. Takes too long to develop the Jackson character. Matinee at $5.50 was well worth it. I'll buy the DVD (can skip through the non-battle parts). There will be a third part to continue the war.