Absolutely Amazing. Flawless Film.

Rating: 10/10 (15 October 2005)

Without a doubt, one of the greatest films I have ever seen. It easily tops my list of greatest war movies. There are a handful of films I consider to be perfect, flawless movies--Glory is one of them.
The acting is superb. The scenes flow smoothly, no choppy editing; the dialogue is brilliant and contains the right amount of humor; no shoddy special effects (my biggest problem with modern day movies) to ruin the feel of authenticity; no over-the-top action scenes; and finally, James Horner's score is absolutely breathtaking--the crowning jewel of one amazing movie.
Matthew Broderick completely blew me away. The emotional intensity behind his eyes and facial expressions is incredible. The beach scene before the charge on Fort Wagner comes to mind--some brilliant acting right there. To be able to perform roles as polar opposite as Ferris Bueller and Robert Gould Shaw really demonstrates his range (and underratedness) as an actor. He brilliantly captured a young man striving to do the right thing in midst of war, to do his duty and fulfill his responsibility to his men, while having personal doubt and uncertainties at the same time. For me, as far as acting and character go, he was the highlight of the movie. The director could easily have made him a perfect, Hollywoodized action hero, but instead the character remains human--he has fears, he has uncertainties, and he doubts himself just as we all do. He's not a Bruce Willis or a John Wayne--it is very refreshing and realistic, and most of all, true to the character, true to the real Robert Gould Shaw revealed in his memoirs.
Morgan Freeman is, as always, a joy to watch. He has long been one of my favorite actors, and he truly shines in this movie. His character is one of the most memorable, aside from Denzel Washington's, who also delivered an amazing performance. He earned that Oscar, no question. Never once did I think of these men 'acting', it is so natural.
If you haven't seen this one, go rent it, or better yet, buy it. You won't be disappointed. A stunning movie that beautifully honors the 54th.