Glory

   After seeing it years ago, I forgot how moving the film "GLORY" was. It was, not surprisingly, quite more spiritual than I remembered. Matthew Broderick's portrayal of Col. Robert Gould Shaw led me on a journey of emotional reflection, not only for the lives men give for their country, but also for the abhorrent tragic embarrassment that was Slavery during the Civil war era. Morgan Freeman, Denzel Washington, and Andre Braugher, who are all amazing performers in their own rights, only solidified the difficulties suffered by blacks during that time.
    What I found most profound though, was the way Broderick's Shaw stood up for his men, not only for Glory, but for recognition. As much as the color of skin affected how he led his men,(references were made in his narrations, Letters to his parents, about his misunderstanding of black culture and comraderie), the color of skin was clearly not an issue when it came to his belief in the power of equality for those who wish to fight and perhaps die for their country. To give the ultimate sacrifice on the field of battle, to lay down your life, was by all accounts a badge of honor to not be refused to any man, black or white.
    Not to be undone by an amazing score written to instill pride, the film's focus on Shaw's driven persona and his honor of duty was well explained, and moving to say the least. This film has shown me once again, but with more conviction, how important celebrating diversity is. The closing scene showing Broderick and Washington rolling lifeless down a dune into a mass grave is chilling, inspiring, and imposing. In death, they both represent what was fought for. In the end, they were both side by side, equal, and remembered. God Bless all those lost to battle, their families, and may the Lord remind us by our inspired actions to never forget the ultimate sacrifice.