GLORY

 "GLORY" --- (1989) --- 

MY THOUGHTS:
There is a lot to like about this movie, which is probably why I like it so much! Being an American history buff, I like how much Civil War history it covers and the fact that this particular story is a true one; based on letters sent home from some of its main characters. I like how it is written and how the story is told. I also think the acting is quite excellent, and that the excellence reaches deep into a large ensemble cast, so that you can't help but care about all of the characters by the time it comes to its climatic ending. This film was also filmed beautifully. Even in its most brutal of moments, the cinematography and editing, are done with an eye for detail and true artistry. Like I said ...there is a LOT to like about this movie! Whether you are watching it for the first time, or the fifth, it is well worth the time to do so. It is also, as illustrated so vividly and poignantly in its final sequences, a tribute to true "brotherhood" and the ultimate sacrifice for the betterment of our countrymen's lives.

SYNOPSIS:
"Following the Battle of Antietam, Col. Robert Gould Shaw is offered command of the United States' first all-African American regiment, the 54th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. With junior officer Cabot Forbes, Shaw puts together a strong and proud unit, including the escaped slave Trip and the wise gravedigger John Rawlins. At first limited to menial manual tasks, the regiment fights to be placed in the heat of battle."

STARRING:
Matthew Broderick, Cary Elwes, Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman, Andre Braugher, Jihmi Kennedy, Bob Gunton, Richard Riehle, Cliff DeYoung, Mark A. Jones and Alan North.

SCREENPLAY:
Kevin Jarre; based on "Lay This Laurel" by Lincoln Kirstein and "One Gallant Rush" by Peter Burchard.

DIRECTOR:
Edward Zwick

AWARDS & OTHER HONORS:
It was nominated for five (5) Academy Awards and won three (3) for:

"Best Actor in a Supporting Role" --- Denzel Washington
"Best Cinematography" --- Freddie Francis
" Best Sound" --- Donald O. Mitchell, Gregg
Rudloff, Elliot Tyson, Russell
Williams II

It was nominated for nineteen (19) additional awards and won (9) of them.