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Shenandoah is a classic western drama released in 1965. Directed by Andrew V. McLaglen, the film stars James Stewart, Doug McClure, and Glenn Corbett in lead roles. Set in Virginia during the American Civil War, the film depicts the story of a family's struggle to maintain its neutrality amidst the bloody conflict. The film opens with James Stewart's character, Charlie Anderson, a wealthy farmer, who lives with his six sons and daughter. Charlie is fiercely protective of his family and believes that their only responsibilities are to tend to their farm and stay out of the war. He is a man of deep faith and values peace above all else.

However, as the war rages on, Charlie's family begins to suffer its brunt. His youngest son is captured by Union soldiers, and his daughter-in-law and grandchildren are killed in a tragic attack. These events not only rip his family apart but also challenge his beliefs about staying neutral.

When news of a battle close to their farm reaches them, Charlie decides to take his remaining sons and help the trapped Confederate soldiers. He believes that it is the right thing to do as a Christian and a humanitarian, but his struggle to stay neutral and protect his family intensifies.

During their journey, they encounter a young woman, who had been raped by Union soldiers. Charlie's sons want her to go to the authorities, but Charlie, who is still trying to stay neutral, insists on taking her to her family instead.

As the Andersons help the Confederates, they witness the harsh realities of war up close. Although they are reluctant at first, they eventually fall in line to do their part. Yet, as the body count rises, tensions within the family continue to mount, and their faith and loyalty are tested.

Throughout the film, James Stewart stands out with his stellar performance as Charlie Anderson. He portrays the patriarch with grace and restraint, making his character both sympathetic and relatable. Doug McClure plays the role of Jacob Anderson, Charlie's second eldest son, with aptness and showcases the conflict between his duty to his family and his allegiance to the Confederate Army.

Graphically, Shenandoah stands the test of time with magnificent cinematography, especially during battles and landscapes. The film's score, composed by Frank Skinner, is also noteworthy, further enhancing the emotional impact of the movie.

Shenandoah touches on the senselessness of war and the humanity that is often forgotten amidst the conflict. The film portrays the Andersons' harrowing journey back to their farm, which puts their faith, family, and beliefs to the test. Its poignant depiction of the massacre in the fields and the aftermath that follows is thought-provoking and heart-wrenching.

The film's deep-rooted messages about war and its cost transcend through generations, making it a timeless classic. Shenandoah reminds us that even in the most challenging of times, we must hold onto our values and beliefs, and more importantly, that family remains the bedrock of human existence.

In conclusion, Shenandoah is an exceptional western drama that signifies the human struggles and values of pre and post-Civil War America is beautifully directed and executed. Its performances, direction, score, and visuals combine to create an exceptional piece of cinema. A must-watch for everyone, Shenandoah is a fascinating and engaging film that continues to enthrall its audience to date.

Shenandoah is a 1965 action movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 45 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.3.