Astonishing achievement

Rating: 10/10 (26 August 2013)

Having read the book first (took me actually couple weeks:) I couldn't wait to see this movie. In short - I couldn't have been more satisfied. It follows the book closely, reflecting the actual events that happened during the last months of Civil war as precisely as they could be described.
Already the beginning will wet your eyes with the Gettysburg address smartly inputted to the movie and of course ends with Stanton's famous quote after AL dies. I'm very happy Daniel Day Lewis accepted the offer and portrayed AL with such great intensity and power as AL rightly deserves. I replayed some scenes (his talk with Mr. Stevens, argument with his wife) countless times, and always find them fascinating. He walks and talks exactly as AL did (according to the book) so this movie is not just a great achievement in cinematography but a brilliant depiction of actual events and an amazing achievement in acting.
The only downside is you have to know a little bit of history as you will be thrown into the action, and might find it confusing. If you are into books I really recommend to read the original book first, and then enjoy watching this movie.