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Reviews
Glory (1989)
Matthew Broderick cannot act
Being a civil war buff, I have viewed this film many times. This film is about the first black union civil war regiment. It is moving, historically accurate and a tribute to the men who fought in the civil war. The depictions of the African Americans who served the union cause are wonderful. Action is minimal, as the focus is on the men and what they went through. What battle scenes do exit are presented well. The climax of the assault on the Confederate fort is breathtaking. Bottom line, a good film with a near fatal flaw. Matthew Broderick was badly cast, being neither believable in the role nor competent as an actor in general.
The Victors (1963)
One of the best war films ever made.
Aside from the theatrical release in 1963, the only chance to catch this superb film was late at night years ago. Unfortunately, it has never been made available on video. It is an intense, moving, and at times downright disturbing film which follows American soldiers through their WWII experiences in Europe. Incredibly filmed, directed and edited this film is one that stays with you. By cleverly blending old newsreel footage, you get the feeling you are there. My one wish is that this would be released on DVD in its original format. Best scene: The American squad comes upon a group of Germans in a bunker trying to surrender. Upon hearing shots, a group of French soldiers take over the situation. Watching a white flag emerge, the French open fire, eventually sneaking down and planting explosives on the bunker which they detonate with obvious delight. Leaving, the French officer, who wears an eye patch and is scarred from ear to neck, turns to the American Sgt (Eli Wallach) and says with a grin: "If you feel you need to report this pray your country is never occupied".
Victory at Sea (1952)
Finally on DVD
All the other comments about this series are right on. This is a superb series that is a must for anyone interested in WWII. The archival footage is extensive and fascinating. Now, I just started viewing the 3 DVD set of this series. I must say, I'm a little disappointed. First, the print used is very worn. This may be due to haste, or it could be that all known prints are in really rough shape. Secondly, this appears to be a video of the film that was transferred to DVD. So what we are looking at is a somewhat blurry and worn version that is many generations (copies) old. Like I said, I'm a LITTLE disappointed, not a lot. Glad I got it.
Campfire Tales (1997)
Worth a look
This is a gem of a movie I discovered by accident. It is a nice anthology horror film which contains four stories rolled into one. There is graphic sex which is a little distracting, though. If you like this one you should check out "After Midnight".
Black Terrorist (1978)
Not as bad as you would think
This movie is extremely obscure and impossible to find. It was originally titled "Terrorist" (1976). It actually is not as bad as you would think. A marauding band of black terrorists hold the inhabitants of a tiny desert settlement hostage. They murder most of the settlers, but spare a beautiful white woman and her young son. She escapes in a hale of gunfire, then enlists the aid of a machine gun toting soldier of fortune to free her child. Lots of great campy music. Based on a true story.