Superb!

Rating: 10/10 (17 December 2006)

I bought the Gettysburg DVD because I am a Martin Sheen fan, but almost forgot about watching him, as the whole film was such an amazing depiction of Gettysburg. In fact Sheen's performance was a little disappointing; while I could appreciate the dignity and humility that he portrayed as Lee, I felt he lacked Lee's strength and charisma - but I did like his accent, and felt that he did look like Lee. His finest moments were receiving the cheers of the men before Pickett's charge, which was a very moving scene, and then his anguish after the failure of the attack when he said 'It's all my fault.'
However, for me it was Jeff Daniels as Chamberlain who was the most memorable character. He was totally believable as the college professor turned colonel, and all his emotions were there on his face. The battle at Little Round Top was awesome with the bayonet charge.
Longstreet's beard was a real distraction but Tom Berenger faithfully played the part of Lee's most trusted general, and the discussions between him and Lee about tactics were extremely well done.
Richard Jordan as Armistead reduced me to tears when he talked about his friendship with Hancock - two friends on different sides, fighting against each other, a situation that was replicated by many in this war.
Stephen Lang as George Pickett was exuberant and enthusiastic, which made the final scene with him even more emotional when he told Lee 'I have no Division.'
The 3rd day battle scenes were absolutely superb and looked very authentic.
Once I had seen the film, I definitely wanted to know more about Gettysburg - I have already ordered two books about the battle. This maybe is the best recommendation I can give for this film, it really makes you want to know more.