The Film

I try not to “criticize” any of the films I am reviewing, but rather just offer my opinions after watching it. I don’t claim to be any authority, and in many cases the material simply didn’t strike a chord in me. One thing I absolutely respect, however, is independent filmmakers who get things done. Not whining, film school grads talking big, but actual people with passion making a movie. I don’t care if you’re movie is garbage, at least you had the stones to make one. The Last Confederate: The Story of Robert Adams may not cement a place in film history, but the love behind the project is absolutely evident.

The film is the story of Robert Adams (Julian Adams), a Captain in the Confederate Army, and his love for Eveline McCord (Gwendolyn Edwards), a schoolteacher who just happens to be from the North. The pedigree behind the film is that Julian is the great-great grandson of the historical figure he is playing. This is a film created by the family to tell their own story–you have to respect that. The story starts in 1860 when Eveline arrives in South Carolina and catches Robert’s eye. She is actually the sister of his good friend Nelson McCord (Joshua Lindsey). All is well and romance blooms until the war comes south and Robert heads off without a second thought, taking Nelson with him. Needless to say, the war destroys everything, sending both Robert and Nelson to prison up North. He does see Eveline again, but his pride keeps him fighting, but separated from his love.

The Last Confederate is a classic story of lovers separated by war. However, what makes you care about these stories is the love, not the war. From a filmmaking perspective, the camerawork, editing, cinematography—it’s all very well done. Unfortunately the one aspect of the film that suffers is the most important—the story. With an uneven and stock romance plot the question isn’t will Robert and Eveline wind up together, it is do you even care? Only marginally, and that’s a shame.

The DVD

The video is presented in 16×9 anamorphic full frame. The transfer is passable though features more compression artifacts and grain than I’m used to that this stage in DVD’s lifespan.

The audio is offered in English Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound with English/Spanish Subtitles. Surround sound is utilized during moments of action while the quieter scenes always maintain a good balance and clarity.

The Extras

“Once Upon A Time In The South” is a 20-minute featurette with plenty of information provided by Julian Adams. Unlike most EPK pieces, the history behind the family and the film are discussed in detail and show how much of a passion project this was.

Also offered are Deleted Scenes and the Trailer.

Final Thoughts

Despite a strong effort and the best of intentions, The Last Confederate fails to be the moving, powerful picture that it sets out to be. – Jeff Ritchie