History Not Artistry

Rating: Null/10 (14 April 2004)

I enjoyed this movie a great deal, although it definitely reinforces the case that historical accuracy alone does not make a great movie. I concur with many of the previously posted criticisms regarding this movie as ART, but got a kick out of a few elements of it that I noticed. Among the actors who appear in this version of the Alamo were two who appeared in the last major retelling; 1987s "The Alamo; Thirteen Days to Glory:" Tom Everett and Buck Taylor. Also, regarding historical accuracy, a portion of the lost garrison were "New Orleans Grays," volunteers for Texas from Louisiana who wore grey uniforms. I enjoyed seeing them depicted among the motley militia etc. of the garrison. On that score, many of my friends were confused by the references to Travis commanding the "regulars" and Bowie the "volunteers." This was not a reference to the United States Army, But to the ARmy of the Republic of Texas, which included a core group of enlisted regulars (who did recieve uniforms after the republic was established), and volunteers, who were to serve only in wartime; in effect embodied Texian militiamen. These were supplemented by numerous independent companies of Volunteers from the United States, (like the Grays) who went to Texas to join the fray. Among Houston's army at San Jacinto were depicted a number of US Army "deserters" in the sky blue jackets and trousers, who are understood to have joined the Texan Army (with or without official permission is debateable.) The Two scenes that stand out in my mind were all to brief: The scene where the Grays are bayonetted to death in their barracks room was chilling and evocative in a way I have not seen in previous cinematic versions; Second, Crockett's execution, with the mixture of bemusement and rancor evident in the Mexicans. As I understand it is now pretty much accepted fact among historians that C. was executed, but by Santa Anna's staff officers in order to please their leader.In fact, I found myself more interested in the Mexican scenes than the rambling between the Texian principals. I appreciated the redemption theme of the film among the Alamo leaders, but after a few dialogues it was redundant, and I longed for more concentration on Billy Bob's Crockett and Echevarria's Santa Anna.