Movie Review - Gods and Generals – A Surprise Civil War Film From Ted Turner

 This Civil War epic has enough action to interest even the casual movie goer for at least one viewing. The thinking Christian will want to own this film for an occasional rerun. In the tradition of Gone With The Wind, Gods and Generals is almost four hours of the history of war. Unlike Gone With The Wind, this film focuses on the war and the history of war strategy, with romance as the sub plot.

 Gods and Generals follows the lives of several Christian officers from both sides of the conflict, both on the battlefield and in their home lives. Ted Turner has masterfully depicted both the glory and horror of war in Gods and Generals. Surprisingly, the movie mogul who said, “Christianity is a religion for losers”, has labeled pro-life Christians as “Bozos” and in general has nothing good to say about the religion that he was raised on, depicts the Christian faith of Stonewall Jackson with amazing respect.

 This film is satiated with characters who are devoted to God and are not bashful about their devotion. You will be inspired by the dependence placed on God in this time of great peril in the lives of the men and women depicted. The Christian thinker will find the exchange between “Stonewall Jackson and his wife on the occasion just before his death especially inspiring.

 The casual movie watcher will pain through some of the dialogue, which was designed to instruct the audience in the attitudes of characters from both sides of the conflict. Sometimes Turner, whether purposely or by accident, relates the “just war” philosophy that was systematized by the reformers of the 16^th and 17^th centuries. Robert Duvall, as Robert E. Lee, delivers an address that conveys that the South was defending their home land against an invading tyrant. Stephen Lang, as General “Stonewall” Jackson proclaims to one of his staff officers that we must turn to the Bible for guidance on how to proceed with this war. Joshua Chamberlain, played by Jeff Daniels, explained the sentiment of some during the period concerning the inconsistency of men fighting for their freedom while leaving others in slavery just because of the color of their skin.

Shortly after America was introduced to the concept of “the fusion of entertainment and enlightenment” by Glenn Beck, Ted Turner inserted that concept into this film. You will want to schedule an evening for this 220 minute massive film that portrays some memorable moments from the most tumultuous period of American history.

 The typical audience of the Christian Worldview of History and Culture will enjoy this film again and again throughout the years. Click on the icon below to order your copy today.