While there are issues with this project because it was intended to be just the beginning of a series, the quality of this work is higher than most say. I wish the battle scenes were more realistic and compelling, as I believe they are neither. But the connections between the main characters who were 1861 West Point cadets are quite interesting. Spielberg, Burns and Foote being connected to this project is evident. Historically, it is strong. Much of the script is adapted from historical documents and accounts. Anyone who's studied the Civil War will note the familiar lines of dialogue and pieces of letters. Unfortunately, ABC did not pick up this pilot for series, so it's now seen as what it is, a 90-minute TV movie.
Review of Class of '61
