Glory

Rating:
Summary: A Movie for Warmongers and Pacifists alike
Review: The Academy Award winner from 1989 stands out as a monumental film with stunning acting, crisp cinematography and one of the most realistic depictions of the horrors of war ever filmed.

Matthew Broderick is compelling as Robert Gould Shaw, the young and inexperienced commander of the 54th Regiment of Massachusetts, an all-black unit initially deprived of the right to fight but eventually allowed to prove its mettle in a pivotal battle of the Civil War. Morgan Freeman exudes paternal strength and wisdom as the eldest member of the platoon. Andre Braugher, Cary Elwes, Jihmi Kennedy, and a brilliant Denzel Washington (winner of "Best Supporting Actor" Oscar) make this film a genuine classic.

Making small but significant contributions to the film are Jane Alexander as Shaw's mother and veteran Raymond St. Jacques (his last role) as Frederick Douglas.

A further nod of praise goes to James Horner's masterful score. His music, along with the harmonies of the Boys Choir Of Harlem provides as glorious a background as is the inspirational story itself.

Rating:
Summary: Their Glory Was Real!
Review: This is a fine & true film, one of the best movies ever made about the Civil War and a timeless classic based on a true story. With much narration taken from the actual letters written by the 25 year old white Colonel in charge of this, the first, all-black Regiment recruited from run-away slaves and freedmen in Massachusetts, it is beautifully filmed (Oscar to Freddie Young) and told with great, direct, emotional-truth; a fine & astonishing first directorial effort from Ed Zwick.

All the performances in this superb ensemble cast are excellent. Denzel Washington won the supporting Oscar, but it could just as easily have gone to Morgan Freeman (is that man capable of a bad performance?). All the rest (Jimhi Kennedy, Cary Elwes, Andre Braugher)are fine as well.

The performance I think overlooked is Mathew Broderick as the young Robert Gould Shaw. A nuanced, sensitive and complex portrayal, Broderick captures the man's fluctuations between doubt and confidence, fear & courage. His Shaw believes in the rightness of his cause, has seen (and been frightened by) the horrors of battle, is unsure of himself as a commander and leader. We watch him grow & learn. We see him come to understand these strange men (to his experience)he's been chosen to lead and we see him learn to love them. One great scene of many is where he tears up the pay chit if his men won't be paid fully (the moment he becomes THEIR Colonel). Another, the guilty looking down and away at Washington's scars & subsequent flogging.

But, the scene indelible in my memory is Shaw on horseback, looking out to sea before the last battle, and the play of emotions over Broderick's face. At that moment you know he is in love with life and you know that HE knows he is going to die in the battle. It is silent, bittersweet & utterly truthful about all young men facing death in battle. And finally, we see his acceptance & resolve to carry on, and the bond between him and his men is final. Courage.

The story of the 54th Massachusetts is inspiring. There is no better moment in film than when Denzel Washington picks up the dropped colors (which he had previously refused the honor of carrying) and charges forward. At that moment, the black troops of the 54th claimed THEIR right to their part of the American dream... One last footnote, the famous sculpture shown at the end of the film of Shaw & the 54th was not, as I mistakenly surmised, commissioned by his wealthy family. It was commissioned and paid for by veterans of the 54th. There truly must have been a bond of respect and love between Shaw and his men.

Rating:
Summary: What Color Is Courage?
Review: Until I first saw this film about fifteen years ago, I was unaware of the Massachusetts 54th Colored Infantry regiment which led the attack on what proved to be an impregnable Fort Wagner (near Charleston) on July 10 and 11, 1863. The all-black, all-volunteer 54th was led by Colonel Robert Gould Shaw. He was among the 351 killed during the attack, all but 12 of them wearing a blue uniform. Previously, there was a widespread belief among many whites that blacks would never be able to accept military discipline. The 54th proved them wrong. Many of these same whites doubted that blacks could and would have sufficient courage when engaged in combat. The 54th proved them wrong.

FYI, about 75 years later, African-American fighter pilots in the 332nd Fighter Group -- in the then segregated U.S. military services, including the Army Air Corps -- flew P-51 Mustangs in support of B-17 and B-24 bombers during dozens of runs to/from Germany...and "The Tuskegee Airmen" never lost a single bomber entrusted to their care.

Directed by Edward Zwick with a style that in some respects invites comparisons with John Ford, Glory focuses on the process by which Shaw (Matthew Broderick) gradually develops the leadership and management skills needed to prepare the 54th both mentally and physically for battle and, meanwhile, to overcome the resistance, indeed the hostility to the 54th among other Union officers and troops. Shaw was the 26-year old scion of a white aristocrat family in Boston. Marshall Herskovitz and Kevin Jarre's screenplay is an adaptation of Lincoln Kirsten's Lay This Laurel and Peter Buchard's One Gallant Rush. Although the focus of the narrative is primarily on Shaw, our attention is attracted to Morgan Freeman whose John Rawlins (the 54th's elder statesman) is reminiscent to me of roles he played later, notably as Ned Logan in Unforgiven (1992), "Red" Redding in The Shawshank Redemption (1994), and William Somerset in Seven (1995).

In what proved to be a breakthrough role as Trip (a fugitive slave), Denzel Washington dominates almost every scene in which he appears. He later received an Academy Award for actor in a supporting role. All of the other members of the cast are also first-rate. (Yes, that's Jane Alexander appearing briefly but effectively as Shaw's abolitionist mother.) Special credit to James Horner (musical score) and Freddie Francis (cinematography) for their contributions to what must have been an especially difficult film to produce. In the final sequence, Shaw leads his troops into battle. The subsequent carnage recently came to mind as I observed another scene, early on in Cold Mountain, during which underground munitions are placed and then detonated. As in Glory, the carnage is almost incomprehensible.

Special features provided with the DVD version of Glory include a "Commentary" by director Edward Zwick, Morgan Freeman and Matthew Broderick; an exclusive featurette, "The Voices of Glory"; a documentary, "The True Nature of Glory Continues" narrated by Morgan Freeman; an "Original Featurette," deleted scenes, and "Talent Files" (Edward Zwick, Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman and Cary Elwes).

Rating:
Summary: The Glory...and the Dream
Review: "Glory" ranks on my list as one of the best Civil War films ever made! This cinematic masterpiece traces the founding and short-lived career of the 54th Massachusetts Regiment, the first "all-black" volunteer regiment in the Union army. (By law, all officers had to be white.)

Matthew Broderick stars as the 54th Regiment's commanding officer, Colonel Robert Gould Shaw. Already a grizzled veteran of a the battle of Antietam at the tender age of 24, Shaw is offered command of the new all-volunteer regiment of black soldiers. He accepts the risky officer, enlists the aid of his friend, Cabot Forbes, and begins to recruit runaway slaves and northern "freemen" to join the regiment.

Much of the movie chronicles the 54th regiment's struggle to become a credible fighting force. It's a struggle made nearly impossible by the institutional ineptitude of the Union army and the racial bigotry of many of its officers. The newly recruited black soldiers want nothing more than to fight; the army brass sees them as nothing more than a political expedient and a laughable experiment, capable of nothing more than digging ditches and clearing forests. Against these odds, Shaw, with the help of Forbes and the irascible, bigoted Irishman, Sergeant Major Mulcahy, manages to turn his ragtag band of soldiers into a cohesive fighting unit. How the 54th Massachusettes Regiment fares in its first major engagement - the assault upon Battery Wagner in 1863 - forms the beautiful climactic event of this film.

Matthew Broderick moves away from his usual fluffy, comedic roles (i.e., Ferris Bueller,) and successfully proves himself a serious actor capable of bringing maturity and depth to his role as Colonel Shaw. Denzel Washington's marvelous portrayal as the embittered, cynical runaway slave Trip earned him an Academy Award as Best Supporting Actor. Cary Elwes is less successful in his role as the irresponsible and sometimes insubordinate Major Cabot Forbes. His acting seemed a bit "over the top" at times. Excellent performances are also turned in by Morgan Freeman (Sergeant Major Rawlins), Andre Braugher (Thomas Searles), John Finn (Sergeant Major Mulcahy), and Jihmi Kennedy (Jupiter Sharts).

"Glory's" cinematography is breathtaking throughout. The screenplay is powerfully lyrical in its beauty, and James Horner's beautifully haunting musical score adds a tremendous depth of emotion to an already powerfully evocative film.

"Glory" is a sumptuously produced and well acted movie, a sure bet to please all fans of a good war movie. Highly recommended!!

Rating:
Summary: "Give 'em hell, 54th!"
Review: That line, uttered by an obscure character, a white Union soldier watching the Massachusetts 54th Infantry prepare to assault a heavily-fortified Confederate fort, signifies the acceptance of the Union Army's first all-black regiment. GLORY, director Edward Zwick's Civil War masterpiece, shows us the evolution of the 54th, from a ragtag group of former slaves and freemen--a group under supplied, underpaid, and initially used for manual labor and looting--to an efficient fighting machine.

Like many other reviewers, I was pleasantly surprised by Matthew Broderick's portrayal as Colonel Robert Gould Shaw, the young, idealistic leader of the 54th. Broderick gives this character depth, compassion, credibility, and yes, maturity. And what else can be said about the supporting cast, including Denzel Washington, Morgan Freeman, and Cary Elwes, other than "exceptional?"

GLORY is profound entertainment: gripping, violent, raw, and emotional as the fragile subject of race--of racism--is brought to the forefront. It is a story that is as timeless as it is transcendent.

Rating:
Summary: "Give 'em Hell, 54!"
Review: "Glory" is a movie set in the mid 1800's during Civil War time. It centers around one regiment - the 54th Massachusetts - an all-volunteer black group of men. These men were looked down on (many or all as slaves) and had to prove themselves day in and day out. The 54th faced many struggles both mentally and physically... whether it be the acceptance from other Union members and regiments, the need for shoes and socks, the want of new uniforms, being paid less than everyone else, etc. Edward Zwick directs, Matthew Broderick (as a very young Colonel Robert Shaw) and Denzel Washington (as "Trip", a runaway slave with principles and an attitude) star. Denzel stole many a scene in this movie - the best probably being the scene where he deserted to find some shoes and ended up getting whipped in front of the entire 54th. Fine supporting roles from Morgan Freeman (as "Rawlins") and Carl Ewes (as Shaw's best friend "Major Forbes"). The 54th finally get their chance to do battle in a losing cause at Fort Wagner in South Carolina. "Glory" won 3 Oscars - for cinematography, musical score, and supporting actor (Denzel Washington). Only thing odd about this movie I noticed was that they would flash the month and year of what was going on... almost all months indicated were summer months, yet you saw the actors (and horses) breath in many a scene - indicating it was very cold. Great movie, but not sure the 'extras' on this new (2001) 2-disc set are worth the higher price of the original single disc release.

Rating:
Summary: Glory for Glory
Review: History fills our shelves and files, and yet so much fails to reach us. Sometimes it takes a realm of fiction to bring that history to the masses. Director Edward Zwick's *Glory* not only revealed a small piece of history to 1980's America, but turned out to be a top-notch story. Tri Star's Special Edition DVD of *Glory* brings this well-made drama to current audiences.

Story of *Glory*

*Glory* concerns the origin of the 54th Massachusetts: a black regiment formed early in the American Civil War. Based on history books and personal letters, Glory shows how the 54th was authorized initially to placate abolitionist groups. It follows Colonel Robert Gould Shaw as he turns this symbol into a genuine fighting force. Rampant racism in the Union Army obstructs the 54th, as they are denied the equipment, pay, and experience to prove itself. But our heroes fight back, beating the corrupt Army at its own game. Likewise, all of the main characters must overcome their differences and their own internal demons. *Glory* concludes with the bloody assault on Fort Wagner. A military failure, it succeeded on a political, social, and personal front.

Special Edition

Both this DVD edition and the special edition VHS contain "The True Story of *Glory* Continues", a documentary narrated by Morgan Freeman. The DVD set also contains an additional supplementary short on letters written by members of the 54th. These documentaries provide the actual history behind the 54th Massachusetts, since *Glory* itself takes plenty of artistic liberties. Zwick explains his two deleted scenes, arguing they were redundant. Tri Star also provides a theatrical trailer for three films featuring Denzel Washington. *Glory's* image quality is good, but like most films, it has that annoying tendency to drop down the sound of battle, even when no one is talking. I shoot guns and I know how loud they can be; I want to hear those longarms crack!

The Heart of It All

While Zwick's battle scenes mark the film, he is clearly more interested in the human drama set against the backdrop of history. He says as much in the commentary, and he shows it. Denzel Washington's character Trip is a cynic and a bully, who keeps himself and everybody down with racist language. He particularly targets Thomas, an educated freeman and family friend of Colonel Shaw, who has difficulty relating to his fellow soldiers. Sergeant Rawlins stands between these men; and he finds himself caught between the enlisted men and their officers (who don't always have the right solutions to the regiment's problems).

Colonel Shaw in particular demonstrates the problems of the combat leader, and both the director and Matthew Broderick bring depth to his character. Much of the time, his character is confident, talented, and brave. But behind his bravado lurks a traumatized combat veteran, driven to prepare his regiment for the horror of rifled muskets, repeating pistols, and high-explosive shells. After the battle of Antietam Creek, loud noises make Shaw jump, and he suffers from flashbacks of a fellow captain's grisly death. When his character is promoted from Captain to Colonel, the audience can see the doubt in Broderick's face. Consequently, Shaw brutalizes his men in basic training, employing a particularly harsh Sergeant Major to prepare them. Soon, even his officers grow to resent Shaw.

These details stand in contrast to films like director Randall Wallace's *We Were Soldiers* (2002), another major effort to bring dignity to a little-known piece of American history. Mel Gibson's characterization of Lieutenant Colonel Hal Moore is so unflappable as to be unbelievable. He comes across as having conquered his demons, fearing only that he is leading his men into a massacre. Moore's men are pluralistic and loyal, with no interpersonal conflict. While the 54th must fight tooth and nail simply to get shoes, the 3/7 Air Cav has everything already handed to it. Ultimately, Moore's victory gave way to America's failure in Vietnam, whereas the 54th's defeat paved the way for an American victory. So while these two films might have a similar idea, *Glory* presents a sense of depth and achievement absent from *We Were Soldiers*.

True, both groups of soldiers must grow. But Zwick takes his characters from nothing to something, whereas Wallace presents a troop with everything but their first blood. This is not to say that *Soldiers* doesn't please, but that it appeals on a completely different level than *Glory*.

*Glory*, then, exemplifies classic story telling. Much of this can be attributed to the editing and cinematography. Zwick and photography director Freddy Francis indulge in plenty of dramatic camera movements, using then-new cranes and cradles. But Zwick minimizes the depiction of blood, and quick-cuts violence. This actually lets him pack multiple incidents in his battle scenes, and his battles arouse a chaos other films fail to achieve. Francis continues this trend by maximizing the extras, props, and set seen in frame. The directors and editors also make the most of the actors' facial expressions and body language, helping Denzel Washington to walk away with that Oscar for Best Supporting Actor.

Zwick and Francis even use the sun and the sky to set mood. When Shaw is optimistic in the first minute of the film, the sun is bright and clear; but when Shaw marches into his first battle at Antietam, the filmmakers show the sun obstructed by black smoke. Gray and fog cover the skies all the way until the last act, when the sun shines bright and clear again.

Conclusion

In the end, *Glory* satisfies. The film's payoff comes from its theme and its telling. The characters overcome different obstacles to achieve human dignity. *Glory* uses the American Civil War to demonstrate that if men are created equal, they die equal. And if humans are born alike and die alike, little excuse exists for the inequity in between.

Rating:
Summary: An Important Film, A Must-Have DVD
Review: Ed Zwick's "Glory" is a compelling, memorable film. On the surface, it's the historical telling of the Union's first all-black regiment, the 54th Massachusetts, and its role in the War Between the States (or, as my southern friends refer to it, "The Late Unpleasantness"). Beneath the gritty surface, finely woven strands of discord intertwine. There's the unease between the new regiment and its bigoted Union counterparts (led by Cary Elwes, thoroughly unlikeable in a fine performance), and the tension and distrust amid the former slaves themselves, as crystallized in two excellent performances (what else is new?) by Morgan Freeman and Denzel Washington. Freeman, as Sgt. Major Rawlins, butts heads with Washington's bitter Trip in a battle for the minds and allegiances of their fellow soldiers. Self-determination is at the heart of this latter-day morality play, and the issues--particularly those broached by Freeman's character--are still pertinent today. Freddie Francis won an Oscar for his cinematography. The film is visually stunning, with horrific battle sequences. Excellent Grammy-winning score by James Horner. Denzel won a Best Supporting Oscar; too bad Morgan couldn't have received one as well. Matthew Broderick also gives a fine performance as the 54th's leader, Col. Shaw. Based on Shaw's letters home, "Glory" honorably represents a fascinating chapter of American history. It's certainly worth seeing, and the DVD is a must for any collection.

Rating:
Summary: Glory (1989)
Review: Director: Edward Zwick
Cast: Matthew Broderick, Morgan Freeman, Denzel Washington, Cary Elwes, Andre Braugher.
Running Time: 202 minutes.

Perhaps the most beautiful, honest, and mesmerizing combat depiction of all time, "Glory" is a quintessential tale that set the standard for all Civil War representations. Loosely based on both Robert Gould Shaw's letters and the books Lay This Laurel by Lincoln Kirstein and One Gallant Rush by Peter Burchard, this superb motion picture celebrates what is great about filmmaking-promoting bravery, heart, standing up for your beliefs, and most importantly-freedom.

Matthew Broderick stars as Shaw, the young son of a famed Boston abolitionist and the volunteer commander in chief of the all African-American 54th regiment of Massachusetts. Shaw at first does not realize what he has gotten himself into, as the soldiers blatantly disrespect the commander, causing more havoc than training for a war. With the help from fellow officer Morgan Freeman and the intense soldier Denzel Washington (the Oscar-winning role that made him a star), the regiment learns how to overcome the obstacles of racism, learn how to prepare for battle like a family, and ultimately get the chance to fight for what they believe in. Withstanding adversity and finally getting the chance to engage in combat, the 54th regiment stages an incredible battle against the Confederate forces at Fort Wagner, Carolina-paving the way for not only an unforgettable finale, but showing a portrayal of true bravery and pride as the soldiers' heralded defeat cemented a place in history.

Broderick is outstanding in one of his first dramatic roles (branching from stellar comedic roles in "Ferris Bueller's Day Off" and "Biloxi Blues"), Freeman delivers his usual grand role as Major John Rawlins, and Denzel Washington is timeless as the rebel soldier Private Trip. A fantastic musical score accompanies much of the training rituals and battle sequences, adding a touch of harmony to the exceptionally choreographed war illustrations. Although it did not receive any major Academy Award wins (diagnosed later as the "Saving Private Ryan" syndrome), "Glory" is one of the most important war films to ever be made. Eloquent, striking, ruthless, brash, and spectacular. The DVD features exceptional bonus commentaries from the main assets of the cast, as well as interesting historical information and readings of Shaw's letters.

Rating:
Summary: A moving film, a great Civil War Film
Review: What a great story. This film is a wonderful film for both C.W. buffs and those who do not necessarily like war films, as well as young adults learning about those characteristics in people they should choose to emulate.
The story of men who have had little contact with other social classes, who are now being confronted with this different culture, has been done countless times in the past, yet this film portrays these men with grace. This film is completely believable (where other films often are not) and adequately develops these characters.
This was probably the first time in human history that white men and black men ever came together in this situation, and it tells the story gloriously (no pun intended).