based on a true story

Rating: 10/10 (1 January 2007)

This is the movie that everyone MUST see. It deals with the factual account of the formation of the first all-Black volunteer company in the Civil War. (The story is based on the letters of the commander of the all-Black unit to his loved ones.) Broderick plays a federal officer who leads the all-Black unit. He goes through clashes of conscience within himself and with other Northern officers. He is in a very dangerous position: not only because he is leading an "inferior" company; but, because he leads a Black unit,the Confederacy won't take him prisoner if he is caught. He'll be executed ASAP. The Black unit includes famous actors Denzel Washington and Morgan Freeman, who give Oscar-level performances. I will never forget the time that Washington's character is punished by his commander. This was the first time I became "aware" of Denzel Washington and started following his career from this point on. Fabulous reenactments of battles. Great conflict among characters. Great characterization. If you only see one Civil War movie, this is the one to watch.