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A well done movie, that tries to stay as close as possible to accepted history while acknowledging some of the controversy. The lead actors all do a good job, with Thorton deservedly getting much of the credit. The writers show us the flaws of the characters: their failed backgrounds, their bigotry, their pride and poor judgement. But also the courage and conviction on both sides (except Santa Anna who really is the only truely unsympathetic character). Also the brutality exercised by both sides in victory is depicted well, and the movie takes pains to show that many hispanic Texicans sided with the Anglos immigrants. One of the best features is the audio commentary handled by the film's historians who solely discuss the history and how accurate the film is. Its obvious that a great deal of effort went into making this an accurate depiction of the events and times as known. The only flaws are due to time constraints several characters are introduced, but never explored and its fairly obvious their plotlines where cut for time. I found that a little jarring. The special effects for the storming of the Alamo seemed to be lacking as well, I got the feeling that was done once the budget was getting squeezed. Finally, I didn't see a reason for the the last act covering the Battle of San Jacinto. It was out of place, generic (horse mounted prebattle speech, combat montage, etc...) and uninspired. And while it accurately reflected the bloodlust of the Texican vengeance I don't know that the actual battle sequence was as accurate as the siege of the Alamo. In any case, I thought it could have been dropped and allowed more time for the Alamo story itself.Read full review
Having been born a native of Texas, there is no other, more significant icon of Texas history than the Alamo. Much more than a shrine of fallen heroes, it is in fact, THE defining moment of our state's 162 year history. The Alamo envokes legend, but at its core is it's highest virtue: that 186 men, vastly outnumbered, ill equipped and under-supplied, took a stand in defense of an ideal that they upheld as being of much greater value than their own lives. Freedom! Maybe it is the complex story, its interesting characters, or its unresolved mysteries that create such a compelling mystique. Whatever the angle, the Alamo, still stands as one of the bravest battles of our nation's short life. This new version on DVD is in my opinion, the very best! Its producers have attempted to breath life into Crockett, Bowie, and Travis like no other production ever has, telling as accurately as possible, the true story of the events surrounding those 13 fateful days, and their redemption. Though they knew that relief would not come, these flawed, sometimes larger than life men defended their Texas to the death, and I'm thankful to live in the wake of their sacrifice. Remember the Alamo! Long live their ideals in the hearts of our countrymen!Read full review
I bought this DVD a while ago to add to my collection of "historical" movies. I found this movie to be more accurate to the story of the Alamo than the John Wayne version. Although the John Wayne version is very entertaining, this DVD has more background on the families of the three main characters (Travis, Bowie, and Crockett.) It also shows Santa Anna and his army more and the events that lead to his defeat after the Alamo. The sound effects and digital technology really help in bringing out the battle scenes. I recomend this movie to anyone who likes the story of the Alamo or a great "historical" movie.
I wanted to see another interpretation of this historical happening. This film is well detailed but it sure is the complete opposite of the John Wayne version! The 1960 film was long and drawn out and rather heavy on character development. But the action scenes make up for it. History buffs will point out this flaw or that, at least in their opinions, but I love the dramatic moments and emotional expressions portrayed in the older version. Also, they are very respectful of the Mexican side of the story as well as the people of Mexico who, I think, were presented in a fair and dignified way. This latter version is darker, more somber, and too many of the scenes are filmed in the dark; which only adds to the depression of the theme. I'm troubled that this film is presented with a completely different slant to the story. It takes away the feeling and pride of heroism that John Wayne was able to convey. On the other hand, even at the time, John Wayne's political speeches were misplaced and, most likely, not historically accurate for the times. But one still gets the feeling that the portrayal of Davy Crockett and the others in this newer version is trying to change our minds and rewrite history of this amazing piece of history. I felt like it was trying to minimize the sacrifices of these men, while promoting a more progressive and cold side to the history. Billy Bob Thornton was fabulous, but it's too bad he had to be shown dying a captive's death instead of a hero's; even if some people believe this might be what really happened to Davy and the others.Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I didn't like this movie the first three time I watched it 10 years ago. I was expecting fully engaged non stop battles through out the movie right up to spectacular fought to the last man battle. Instead, the movie felt more like well made documentary film with 3 dimensions characters. Now after watching it 4 more times I love the movie. Sam Houston, Jim Bowie ,David Crockett (he didn't like folks calling him Davy) ,and other characters were well played and well represented with depth of humanity and sometimes humility. Well made costumes and period correct ( at least in my untrained eyes) atmosphere renders the movie enjoyable to watch. The film somewhat explained why the Mexican fought and what at stakes and why the Texan fought. I pick up some favorite item from this movie like that big honky knife that Jim Bowie carried (controversial Musso Bowie) ,Mexican' S Deguello sound, and David Crockett 'S Betsy long rifle. Great movie Read full review
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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