Gettysburg is a 1993 American war film narrating the events of the Battle of Gettysburg, which took place during the American Civil War from July 1 to July 3, 1863. The film is based on the novel The Killer Angels by Michael Shaara, with a screenplay written by Ron Maxwell. The movie was released on October 8, 1993, and runs for 271 minutes.
The film depicts the war between the Union and the Confederacy, showcasing the lives of those involved in the event. The perspective of the soldiers and commanders on both sides are shown. The Confederate Army is led by General Robert E. Lee (Martin Sheen), and the Union Army under General George G. Meade (Richard Jordan). The commanders of both armies are struggling to control the immense forces under their leadership, and their decision-making is explored in depth.
The film shows the events leading up to the battle, with skirmishes, marches, and debates that typified the conflict. The story is told from the perspective of several historical figures, including Confederate generals James Longstreet (Tom Berenger) and Lewis Armistead (Richard Jordan), as well as Union Colonel Joshua Chamberlain (Jeff Daniels). The soldiers are portrayed as complex human beings with families, friendships, and histories of their own that inform their choices on and off the battlefield.
The film's key scenes are focused on the battles themselves, with intense fighting and explosions that immerse viewers in the action. The historical accuracy of these scenes is notable, with attention to details such as the soldiers' uniforms, weapons, and tactics. The famous skirmish at Little Round Top, as well as the disastrous Pickett's Charge, are two of the most memorable battle scenes portrayed in the movie.
Throughout the film, the importance of the battle and its legacy is emphasized. The characters explore the significance of the event in their own lives and the course of American history, with discussions on the idea of a united nation and the meaning of freedom. The movie ends with the Union victory at Gettysburg, seen as a turning point in the war, but also with a sense of loss for the lives that were sacrificed in the battle.