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Andersonville is a made-for-TV look behind the stockade
and focuses on a group of prisoners from the same Union regiment.
The main character is Jim (Jarrod Emick) who is sticks by
his friends as they band together to defeat the triple dangers
of sickness, the Rebels and a brutal mob of fellow soldiers
who steal anything of value from newcomers - usually by killing
them.
Emick does a very good job for a very much unknown face,
although he is backed up by the sterling Frederic Forest,
as a grizzled sergeant, and Cliff de Young as the leader of
an escape team.
Andersonville is not pleasant viewing. It is based
upon fact and examines the barbarity that the soldiers were
forced to endur - particularly having dogs set upon escaping
men.
And, of course, the Union blockade and brutal campaign through
the South meant some Confederates were themselves starving
and paid little thought for the conditions of prisoners.
It is, however, a good look at what men will do under intense
pressure and whether or not they will continue to act like
soldiers, or let themselves descend into the realm of animals.
The video transfer is muted, but very good, and the sound
is terrific.
Civil War buffs will enjoy Andersonville.
Conclusion: 70% Extras: 50%.
Continued:
DVD details at a glance >
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