"Gettysburg" (1993) has quite a bit to offer, beginning with its impressive cast—Tom Berenger as Longstreat, Martin Sheen portraying Robert E. Lee, Jeff Daniels as Chamberlain, and Sam Elliott in the role of Buford—along with authentic Gettysburg locations, well-executed battle sequences, a dedication to historical accuracy, and thousands of Civil War reenactors. The first section is highlighted by Chamberlain’s defense of Little Round Top and his daring bayonet charge, while the second part concludes with the South's famous Pickett's Charge. Both segments are excellent and provide viewers with a sense of what it might have been like to experience that time firsthand, which is one reason I find historical films appealing. Because each half has a standard movie length, I strongly recommend dividing your viewing into two separate experiences; it’s simply too much to absorb in one sitting. There's plenty to admire about "Gettysburg." It presents a straightforward account of how war was fought during the 19th century and the men who participated in it. There are no female characters, nor any contrived romantic subplots. The filmmakers did an admirable job condensing a three-day battle—plus its build-up—into a lengthy but informative and reasonably engaging film. I appreciated seeing officers and soldiers praying while standing in formation before important engagements. It’s difficult to deny faith when you're about to walk directly into cannon fire where people are literally blown apart. I also liked the subtle Civil War details included, like how soldiers had to march across the country carrying heavy rifles during the summer heat, and that the Confederates lacked sufficient boots for their troops. The postscripts detailing the lives of the main characters were also welcome additions. However, the movie feels overlong at times, overly sentimental, and occasionally slow-paced. While the musical score is generally good, sometimes even great, there are moments when it becomes excessively "heroic" or melodramatic. General Armistead’s constant talk about his friendship with a general on the opposing side could have been reduced. Still, if I make an effort to focus on the dialogue and non-action events, I find the film worthwhile. In other words, if you're prepared for its flaws, it is worth watching. But don't expect something exceptional, like "Glory" (1989) or the unfairly criticized prequel “Gods and Generals” (2003). The battle of Gettysburg occurred July 1-3, 1863 and represented a significant victory for the North—a turning point in the war, alongside Grant's simultaneous siege of Vicksburg. After Pickett’s Charge failed, General Lee and his forces retreated back to their own territory. The conflict would continue for nearly two more years as the Confederates continued to fight bravely, but they were at a disadvantage due to the North’s superior numbers and resources, not to mention Ulysses S. Grant. Gettysburg and Vicksburg signaled their eventual downfall. General Meade congratulated his men on driving the Confederate invaders from Northern territory. However, President Lincoln was disappointed because he had wanted Meade to completely destroy Lee's army, rather than allowing them to retreat safely back to their Southern homeland. Lincoln expressed frustration: " 'Drive the invader from our soil'? My God, is that all?" Four months after Gettysburg, on November 19th, Lincoln visited the small town and delivered his powerful ‘Gettysburg Address’ to honor the fallen soldiers and inspire continued Northern commitment and victory. So many people died at Gettysburg they were still burying bodies (!). The version I watched runs four hours and fourteen minutes, although there is a director's cut that is several minutes longer. The film was shot on location in Gettysburg and the Adams County region of Pennsylvania. GRADE: B-

Source on TMDB