A family is torn apart during the American Civil War. Abner Beech (Billy Campbell), a righteous farmer from upstate New York, exercises his right to free speech in a time when families are divided by the Civil War.
Acting
Billy Campbell's stubborn dignity anchors every scene.
Production
Ron Maxwell's obsessive Civil War authenticity returns.
Director
Ronald F. Maxwell
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Ronald F. Maxwell spent decades trying to make this after Gettysburg and Gods and Generals — it's based on an 1893 novel by Harold Frederic, barely remembered today.
The 'Copperhead' slur for anti-war Democrats has modern echoes — the film deliberately invites comparisons to post-9/11 and Iraq War divisions.
US
