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I'll keep those in mind for my next batch from the library. I have a whole stack of Black Conservative books (Walter Williams, Shelby Steele, etc.) that I can pick up tomorrow after my OB checkup ...

I have to say I'm underwhelmed with Jeff Shaara as a writer, but it's hard to go too far wrong with the material he's got. You just couldn't invent characters like Jackson, Lee, Longstreet, the Hills, etc. Or Grant, Hancock, and McClellan. And then to have the plot already done, too ... what a deal!

I read that "Gods and Generals" relied on letters and memoirs for much of the dialogue and characterization, and I think that's a weakness of the film. It takes a lot of the "zip" out of the characters. Lots of them were fun guys: A.P. was a noted debauche, Longstreet (before his children died) was known as a wit, Gen. Early was famous for his good humor and bad language, Jeb Stuart liked to show off his voice, etc. The movie makes them into talking portraits - Tom Chamberlain is the exception; he's having fun!

Yes, the film seems to be stilted...and if you read the reviews on Amazon.com the dialogue is a major complaint.

I've watched Gods and Generals about 15 times...but I only watch the Jackson scenes, which means I get done in about 90 minutes.

Stephen Lang is phenomenal as both Jackson and Pickett in Gettysburg. I've seen him in other things. He is a terrific actor. One of the best.

After Jackson, I like JEB Stuart. What a character! LOL!