One amazing movie

Rating: 8/10 (11 November 2010)

I've heard about this moving for years, but finally had a chance to record and see it on TCM. Robert Osborne said that it is still considered the most controversial movies ever made in the U.S.
I can see why. This is one of the most powerful movies I've ever seen. For flick made in 1915, it scene creation, action and special effects are amazing. The battle scene toward the end of the war, the battle of Petersberg I believe, is one of the best, very likely the most accurate presentation of Civil War hand-to-hand combat ever done.
The second half, reconstruction, is disturbing to say the least. The treatment of blacks and the presentation of the KKK takes you aback.
The only real disappointment is the sappy ending.
Everyone should see this movie at least once. I had planned on doing that very thing, but now am convinced I should get a copy. I will watch this again.