often center on blockbusters such as (1915) and (1939). The work of prominent directors also receives ample attention, from John Ford’s pre-Centennial (1959) to Steven Spielberg’s sesquicentennial offering (2012). Ron Maxwell’s (1993) and Anthony Minghella’s (2003) benefited from interest created by the novels from which the movies were adapted, while Edward Zwick’s (1989) proved immensely influential because it changed how millions of people understood the role of African Americans during the conflict. , directed by Robby Henson and released with no fanfare in 1995, possesses none of the attributes that bring cultural significance and generate large profits. Yet it is a finely crafted, well-acted gem
