Not a big moviegoer, but sounds like it might be a good one...if for no other reason to check out the battle scenes and camp life.
I used to do some reenacting back in the early '80s, and it was a lot of fun. Kinda like going on a campout, and getting to play Cowboys and Indians, only it's Rebels and Yankees. Some of the more "authentic" reenactors showed up with their knapsacks and tent halves ( two men each carried one half of a lean-to style tent), a canteen for water, and some canned goods and hardtack for victuals...in addition to .577 cal Enfield or Springfield rifle, capper and hand rolled paper charges of 60 grains black powder or Pyrodex. (Rolling up those charges would take all night to do about 200.)
Our camps were well equipped with wall tents, tripod cooking stands, Dutch ovens and grill gratings, with good food (eggs, bacon, stew fixings, orange juice, milk, beer, etc.) Ice chests were allowed, but had to be kept out of sight when the spectators toured camp.
That was 20 years ago, and I know that over time, the rules of historical accuracy, both in camp and in regards to uniforms and weapons, have become more important...not only for authentic Living History purposes, but because most of these battle reenactments have film crews there to record documentary scenes and scenes for movies.
Gettysburg is the biggest and most attended reenactment, sometimes with over 7,000 participating...the ultimate vacation for reenactors.
Without a doubt, if you are interested in Civil War history, joining a reenactment group and participating in the battles, is the best and most enjoyable way to learn history.
Les
