The best Civil War movie, period.

Rating: 9/10 (20 November 2002)

'Glory' is, without a doubt, the best film ever made about the Civil War. Granted, it has its issues with historical accuracy and does highlight patterns and events within the war that weren't as important as the uninformed viewer might think. Other comments on this movie have pointed out, quite correctly, that the Civil War was not wholly fought over slavery, that the makeup of the 54th was more upper-class and educated than runaway slaves, and other minor issues that separate 'Glory' from something like Ken Burns' documentary work.
Quite frankly, these errors are irrelevant to creating a great, sweeping epic of a film such as 'Glory'. The ideals here are not in reproducing historical fact; they are in creating an image of an all-black regiment serving in a war that is now more noted for its social impact than its economic roots. This is the story of the black man's role in the Civil War - a story that shows men of all colors battling for their ideals, showing the same courage, bonding under the same stress, and giving their lives the same way. This is a film that is now shown regularly in history classes and rightly so; very few films have captured the sense of war so brilliantly. 'Saving Private Ryan' does such for World War II; 'Glory' is the picture of record for the Civil War.
It's filmed beautifully, as cinematographer Freddie Francis took home a number of awards, including the Oscar, for his portrayals of the various battles. Best of all is the final struggle at Fort Wagner, the bittersweet pinnacle of the 54th and a tearjerking dramatic display no matter how many times you've seen it. It's simply a wonderful scene mixing drama, confusion, bravery and violence and offers an empathic look into the experiences of these soldiers.
The acting all around is superb, as Denzel Washington turns in an intense performance that netted him a Supporting Actor Oscar. He's hardened and defiant; best shown in the whipping scene where he never flinches - only a tear runs down his cheek, no matter how many ugly scars line his body. A powerful performance. All the actors seem to consider this film, and their roles in it, of utmost importance; as if the story they are telling desperately -needs- to be heard. Morgan Freeman and Andre Braugher as other soldiers, and Matthew Broderick as Shaw don't hold anything back.

'Glory' is an emotionally-charged film that never sugarcoats the harsh realities of war, but also highlights the bravery and fortitude of the men that fought it. Historical errors and dramatic compromises aside, this is a wonderful film that illustrates the Civil War and its devastation unlike any film before it.