The Civil War (1990) Review in 2025
The Civil War is a 11-hour documentary series that explores the American Civil War from multiple perspectives, featuring expert historians and reenactments.
Family-Friendly Rating
Is this movie suitable for family viewing?
Not recommended for young children due to mature themes and graphic content.
CineReview Recommendation
Definitely worth watching, especially for history buffs and documentary enthusiasts. However, be prepared for a long and sometimes slow-paced series.
Spoiler Alert!
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The series delves into the complexities of the war, covering topics such as slavery, secession, and the role of key figures like Abraham Lincoln and Robert E. Lee.
Review Details
story9.00/10
The series' narrative is engaging and informative, covering a vast range of topics and perspectives. However, some viewers may find the pacing slow at times.
acting8.00/10
The acting is solid, with many of the historians and reenactors delivering strong performances. However, some viewers may find the acting styles inconsistent at times.
characters8.50/10
The series features a diverse cast of historians and reenactors, each bringing their unique insights and perspectives to the table. However, some viewers may find the character development lacking.
direction9.50/10
Ken Burns' direction is masterful, weaving together a complex narrative with ease and style. The use of music and visuals is particularly noteworthy.
cinematography9.00/10
The cinematography is stunning, with beautiful footage of historic sites and reenactments. However, some viewers may find the use of CGI distracting at times.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Engaging narrative, stunning cinematography, and masterful direction make this series a must-watch for anyone interested in history.
Cons
Slow pacing, inconsistent acting, and some distracting CGI effects may detract from the viewing experience.
Notable Quotes
"The Civil War was a war of ideas, a war of ideologies, a war of values."
"The Union was a fragile thing, held together by a thread of compromise and concession."
