Glory ★★★½ 1989 (R) A rich, historical spectacle chronicling the 54th Massachusetts, the first black volunteer infantry unit in the Civil War. The film manages to artfully focus on both the 54th and their white commander, Robert Gould Shaw. Based on Shaw's letters, the film uses thousands of accurately costumed "living historians" (re-enactors) as extras in this panoramic production. A haunting, bittersweet musical score pervades what finally becomes an anti-war statement. Stunning performances throughout, with exceptional work from Freeman and Washington. 122m/C VHS, DVD, 8mm, Wide. Matthew Broderick, Morgan Freeman, Denzel Washington, Cary Elwes, Jihmi Kennedy, Andre Braugher, John Finn, Donovan Leitch, John David (J.D.) Cullum, Bob Gunton, Jane Alexander, Raymond St. Jacques, Cliff DeYoung, Alan North, Jay O. Sanders, Richard Riehle, Ethan Phillips, RonReaco Lee, Peter Michael Goetz;
Director:
Edward Zwick;
Writer:
Kevin Jarre, Marshall Herskovitz;
Writer:
Freddie Francis;
Cameo:
James Horner. Oscars '89: Cinematog., Sound, Support. Actor (Washington); Golden Globes '90: Support. Actor (Washington).
