Glory

Such a beautiful, poignant film that shows that black people are, by all appearances, better actors. At least in this case. Morgan Freeman is wonderfully minimalist, Denzel Washington is stunningly complex. But I was also surprised by Matthew Broderick, who I had never seen act like this before. And he's not black! (12/02/2016)

Solidly told story, with occasional patriotic touches, some clichés to give it an American idea and above all a story full of moral thoughts that the North against South war offered. It will therefore be a speech about racism and equality and of course, the right and only side will win. Even at the cost of everything possible. But it seemed strange to me that Edward Zwick chose Matthew Broderick for the main role, because I imagine him in slightly different stories. However, objectively speaking, this is probably his most difficult and serious role I have seen from him, and even though he got a lot of help from the moustache, I have to admit that he did quite well, even though it was quite strange. Something like when Napoleon first came to the battlefield, but then showed what he really is. An interesting film, it doesn't get a full score, but it's worth seeing. (21/05/2012)

Let’s attribute a bit of the pathos with flag-bearing and historical inaccuracies intended to highlight inequality (the societal status of recruits, lack of equipment, and flogging in the army) to the strong message of the fight for freedom. The total amount is then underscored by the Union rebel Denzel Washington, the forceful soul-stirring speech delivered by Sergeant Freeman, and Zwick’s skillfully crafted moments from the hell of warfare. I can imagine that the attack on Fort Wagner was observed from behind a dune by the Blondie, who, with a cigar at the corner of his mouth, muttered, "I've never seen so many men wasted so badly." (14/08/2023)

Historical-war dramas have always been Zwick's staple, and here he proves it again. Despite a very protracted start, things improve in pace, atmosphere and acting performances as the first clash arrives. In fact, for most of the film, Matthew Broderick’s character is one of the flattest commanders I've ever seen. The colonel he plays was probably no General Maximus, but that's still no reason for his performance to be so unremarkable. Fortunately, the black squadron is there to save the day lead by Freeman and especially Washington, I fully believed his role as a former slave. (04/06/2015)

One of the best films about the Civil War? More like one of the best (anti) war films ever. The riveting battle scenes show war in all its gruesome pointlessness, the script then beautifully showcases how fighting the enemy can be as difficult as fighting one's own prejudices. Perfect actors (when you have Morgan Freeman and Denzel Washington in a film, it can't be any other way) and Horner's beautiful music make Glory an unforgettable experience. But I try not to imagine what it would look like if the film was produced today and how many people would scold it for being an ordinary agitation film. I'd rather say to myself that we've really advanced a little further than that. (25/10/2020)