Highly Involving and Emotionally Gripping

Rating: Null/10 (17 March 2002)

Powerful, gripping look at the 54th regiment the first all black fighters in the Civil war. There's been many war movies and movies about racism, but this one really stands out. You truly feel for these characters who all seem very real. You admire their discipline, pride, and courage even when in the face of complete adversity.
Broderick's boyish looks have never been better used. He reluctantly becomes the commander of what is initially a rag tag group of individuals. He forces, badgers, and trains the troops to become real fighting soldiers all while forcing himself into his own manhood.
Emotionally wrenching without ever being manipulative or preachy. The final shot shows the sadness and absurdity of war better than all the others combined.