| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| w22dheartlivie |
Posted - 01/10/2008 : 11:27:48
I know that mostly this section is used to discuss new films, but I just had to say a couple things about this film. I first saw Glory many years ago, probably on HBO. I guess I didn't pay all that much attention to it at the time, as my ex was the one who really wanted to see it. He'd seen it in History class in school and talked about it constantly. In any case, I decided to watch it again tonight.
There are those who diss films because they change some historical facts, but in truth, those people usually annoy me. I know that I'm a bit hard with my "revisionist history" reviews, but those aren't to actually criticize a film as much as they are for humor.
Glory is a film adaptation of a true story, not a documentary, so I am more than willing to allow for artistic interpretation. The important thing is that it tells a story, and in this case, the film has great depth of characters.
The performances are outstanding. This is Matthew Broderick, shaking off the cloak of the still recent Ferris Bueller, completely bereft of comedy. His young colonel is serious, driven and committed, even as he retains his idealism. Cary Elwes' presence is seen and felt, even as it always is - mostly in the background but lending a legitimacy to the story.
But it's not Broderick or Elwes who stand out in this film. Not by a long shot. The strength and character of this film lies in the solid, magnificent performances of Morgan Freeman, Andre Braugher, Jihmi Kennedy and Denzel Washington. Morgan Freeman brings a touch of class to every film he makes. His Sgt. Rawlins is the glue that brings the regiment together, bridging the gulf between black and white. Andre Braugher's work as Thomas Searles is wonderful to behold. He grows from a young, free, idealistic black man into a brave, fearless and loyal fighter, truly committed to the cause of the war. His transformation occurs slowly through the film, coming to terms with the difference in his background and the lives of the free men and runaway slaves he fights with, growing into his own man. Jihmi Kennedy is a great actor, although his film work has been small (he left acting not long after Glory to become a well loved teacher in North Carolina). He brings a tenderness and realism to his stuttering, illiterate Jupiter that touches the viewer.
That only leaves Denzel Washington. Anyone who ever doubted why Washington won the Academy Award for his role as Private Trip need only watch one scene. After Trip is apprehended "going AWOL" (in reality he only left to find shoes), he is whipped in front of the battalion. Trip goes to the wheel he is meant to be bound to and grasps it on his own volition, there was no need to be forced. His back reveals scars from beatings in the past. The scene is not explicit. In fact, the scene is a very long shot of only Washington's face, staring at Broderick's character as the whip lands over and over. What made Washington the only real choice for that Oscar was the range of emotions, dignity and pride that plays across his face throughout the whipping. An uncomfortable, painful viewing is capped by that tear that finally spills down one cheek. I have to wonder how many others held their breath during that scene, only relaxing when it is over. Through the remainder of the film, Trip matures, losing his overt anger as he grows into a soldier, committed to the cause. That change is reflected in his speech during the service the men hold the night before the final battle, when Trip can only say that what happens tomorrow doesn't matter, because "we men, aren't we?"
Sorry to go on so, but I learn to appreciate and love this film over and again, each time I see it. It moves me in a way most other films do not. I'm glad that it is shown in school. It teaches that there is nobility even in a losing battle, as well as an appreciation for the barriers that were overcome for the men who formed that regiment and the real victory they achieved, even in losing. |
| 2 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| Whippersnapper. |
Posted - 01/10/2008 : 16:10:09
It's a bit like cough medicine though - it might do you some good but don't expect to enjoy it.
|
| Beanmimo |
Posted - 01/10/2008 : 13:46:46
It's always been one of those films I've hated to miss but miss it I have.
I'll make a concerted effort not to pass over it in the rental shop next time I'm there.
Thanks for the reminder!! |
|
|
