An epic, in every sense of the word...

This film was originally intended as a 6 part mini series, but it was then turned into a feature length movie running over 4 hours in lenth. Don't let that put you off though, it's an epic, sweeping account of the events surrounding the great battle towards the end of the American civil war, told from both sides of the battlefield. It forms part of a trilogy along with the also excellent 'Gods & Generals' and the as yet produced third installment. It has everything, realism, tension, drama, excitement, even education! The cast, including Martin Sheen, Tom Berenger, Jeff Daniels and C Thomas Howell are all terrific (especially Daniels), and the 4 or so hours seem to fly by. Anyone with a passing interest in the civil war or even just a great war movie will love it. Recommended!