“Gods and Generals” Movie Review

    “Gods and Generals” was the ambitious prequel to “Gettysburg” once again showcasing key events in the American Civil War.  The film shared many of the same positive and negative treats as it’s predecessor.  “Gods and Generals” received a fair amount of backlash and negative reviews from critics who felt the film championed “The Lost Cause” ideology.
   One of the major flaws of the film that did not plague “Gettysburg” is it’s long and drawn out speeches.  Characters don’t tend to have normal conversations, instead everything is a monologue about why they feel a certain way.  You see, I personally believe the film ‘does’ lean towards supporting the Conferderate side without meaning to.  You see, the main characters of this film are “Stonewall” Jackson and Robert E. Lee.  The only main character from the Union side was Chamberlain.  When a film is told from the viewpoint of an individual (or in this case, half the country) who also happens to be on the wrong side of said history, it’s easy to see how people might feel like this film is championing “The Lost Cause” ideology and deem it to be racist.  I didn’t write this film but I personally believe this is more of a problem with the script than any racist intent.  That being said, you can’t blame people for thinking that either.  I certainly am not trying to change anyone’s views, but I wanted to give my two cents into the matter.
    Now that I included this note, I will get into what I thought worked and didn’t work about the film.  First of all the cast is solid.  Jeff Daniels once again reprises his role of Chamberlain but he isn’t given a lot to work with. Robert Duvall replaces Martin Sheen as Robert E. Lee but doesn’t seem as invested as Sheen was which is a shame since Duvall is said to be a decedent of Lee.  The highlight of the film as far as acting is concerned is Stephen Lang as Stonewall Jackson.  Lang is given clunky dialogue and makes them as close to Shakespearean as possible.
    The film, like “Gettysburg”, also can pride itself on it’s authenticity.  That being said, it is also way too long.  “Gods and Generals” to most people will feel like the time a friend drug you to a civil war re-enactment and decided to stay for eight hours.  A movie you pay to see shouldn’t feel like a history class assignment.  Throughout all it’s faults and controversy, there is something for history buffs to enjoy and debate about.  Just be aware “Gods and Generals” will test your patience and once again, your bladder.  Proceed at your own risk!

Grade: C-