It is especially great when you juxtapose it with the earlier scene where Longstreet, convinced he will lose, asks Pickett - "George, can you take that ridge?" and Picket just gets this big grin on his face and charges off to the battle - excited to have the chance to finally lead the charge. He went in to it cocksure that his Virginians were going to win a glorious victory... and then reality hit hard.
@@5xq38p4uHe was brilliant at being a HATED character like IKE. Coward. Alcoholic. Sneaky little snake. Lols. That's how great of an actor Mr. Lang is.
"Up men! Up, and to your posts! And let no man forget today, that you are from...old...Virginia!" - Stephen Lang at the top of his game, having brought George Pickett back to life on the big screen.
@meathead6155 can always tell when actors are just in it for the paycheck. You know? What they call, "phoning it in". Lang never does that, just pick any of his roles. He doesn't do it. Serious actor, a good actor.
It is incredible to realize how different Ike Clanton, George Pickett, and Stonewall Jackson were as people upon knowing that Stephen Lang played each role to perfection.
Stephen you hit the nail on the head; history is not being taught in schools like they used to be. We need to remember where we came from and remember our history good or bad. You are a brilliant actor and a wonderful human being. 💜💜💜
If only this was possible to do. Very little of what it takes to understand the USA is being taught these days. Civics hasn't been taught for over 50 years in this country and the vast majority of people that happen to be living this country now don't even understand anything about how our government is supposed to work anymore. Civil War history can't be imparted to our children by people that have no understanding of it themselves and very, very few teachers have any knowledge of history. Then there's type and volume of non-European immigration for whom Civil War history has no connection at all. We can see today that politicians are all too happy to distort history and use it to pander to people that just want to profit from that. There are changes that must be made if this country is ever to be a nation again that I'm afraid will never be made by the present regime.
@@karlheinzvonkroemann2217Why exactly is it “non-European immigrants” that have no connection to US Civil War history? Don’t ALL immigrants by nature have no connection to the history of the country they immigrate to? Tell us what you _really_ mean.
Unfortunately, many places in the old Confederacy, especially Florida, have renewed their old efforts to whitewash history and remove all the bad parts because it “offends” them (ironic since these are the same people who cried about over sensitivity and censorship).
@@Zarastro54Don’t think it matter much where you come from but more if you have an inclination to history. Not a lot of people has that. % wise. Perhaps if one is born in the country (USA)parents supposedly can teach or try to teach their kids about the civil war although I feel there is such a misunderstanding on the whole event that many times cliche and propaganda end up to be taught and very little history. I happen to be a European immigrant (god bless America and her funding principles ) have been to few battlefield so far, Gettysburg, manassas, Yorktown, Saratoga and look forward to visit Chikamauga soon! Studied the history of this great country and admire the funding fathers enlightened views particularly Thomas Jefferson. It is great to have the American battlefield trust here to promote the history and most importantly preserve it. Physically. I always try to donate what I can to support battlefield preservation as it is truly something that should not be lost.
One thing that isn't given enough credit is the music in the film. When Longstreet (who looks distraught) asks Pickett, "George, can you take that ridge?" And Pickett says nothing and just grins - the way the music hits when he grins - that's brilliant filmaking right there - still gives me chills.
It makes God's and Generals even more infuriating. The music in Gettysburg is spectacular. Perfectly balanced emotional themes that balance the sides and are not *to* heroic for the south.
"General Longstreet, may I commence the attack?" Lt. Gen. James Longstreet (Tom Berenger) just nods his head up and down knowing what is going to happen to Maj. Gen. George Pickett (Stephen Lang) and his division on the Third Day @ Gettysburg! Terrific film and terrific actor. Lang just brings a sense of charm and wit to his characters.
@@odinsavenger4965 I can understand the box office issue, however, the longevity of especially Gettysburg can't be denied. It made a great historical contribution to the Civil War (ok not entirely accurate from many folks perspectives. But it did and still does raise interest in perhaps seminal event in the History of the United States.
The reason Last Full measure wasn't made because most of the financing was coming from people that wanted Maxwell replaced as Director. Many people thought he pushed the Confederate "lost cause" myth beyond the pale, in God's and Generals. To this date Glory is the best Civil War movie starring Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, and Morgan Freeman.
Gettysburg was supposed to be a series on TV but never got released. I think it would worked well as a serial. I personally think as a movie it is no great work but has its moments.
George Pickett, what a cavalier! Mr Lang portrayed him so well. He is my favourite character in the film. Picketts wry smile after being asked if he could take the hill on the 3rd day is legendary.
“Democracy is a discussion.” Best quote I’ve heard in a long time. I love him as an actor; after this interview, I really respect his love and knowledge of history and it’s importance to our future. It was also fun hearing all the behind-the-scenes stories. Shakespeare is always a good audition for anything.
*I've had almost no chance to see live theater, but Stephen Lang's performances as "Happy" in "Death of a Salesman," as George Pickett in "Gettysburg" and as Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson in "Gods and Generals" have made him my favorite actor.*
I love Stephen Lang like he is one of my favorite actors and he is my favorite actor because of his role in the movies Gettysburg, Gods and generals and the Avatar Franchise.
I remember the scene when Longstreet asks Pickett if he can "take that ridge"..Pickett (Lang) didn't say anything, but instead gave a smirk of confidence.
Probably our favorite between my father and uncles. Stephen Lang was perfect in his role. First time I ever saw Stephen Lang in a movie. When we always saw the introduction credits and saw Pickett we would always say “There’s Pickett!!” Everyone was perfect in their roles but Lang was definitely my favorite among them for his change in the movie where he was so positive and then at the end his final line “General Lee, I have no division.” Perfect.
I LOVED Mr. Lang in this movie. He embodied the Southern charm in Pickett. A showman with his comrades and once he was on the battlefield, he brought fiesty, fiery, and fierce persona of General Pickett.
Met this sweet and wonderful man as he came down the steps in the museum at VMI as we were looking at the taxidermied Little Sorrel... Stonewall Jackson's war horse...I had just finished doing 2 days of shooting Gods and Generals as an extra (I unfortunately wound on the cutting room floor). He and a couple of his children were very gracious...we spoke for several minutes and he signed an autograph and posed with us for pictures...an extremely talented and grounded individual. He is as he presents to the public. My dear friend Jim Choate who portrays General Bee in the movie whose memorable line names Jackson for posterity "there stands Jackson like a stone wall come rally round the Virginians boys" agreed that Stephen Lang was a fantastic actor to work with. I will fondly remember both of these actors forever. Fran Przybylowski
Met Mr Lang while filming God's and Generals. I was a young reenactor and he made time to take pics and talk with us. Very nice guy. Love his movies and hearing him speak.
Mr. Lang is a great character actor especially in "Early American" roles. I loved ALL the actor portrayals in Gettysburg. Well cast film. And the fact that he is helping ABT causes makes him "invaluable". I would love to se an interview with Sam Elliot (!) and some of the actors and re-enactors. Nice to see & hear Mr Duncan in action....(member ABT).
Stephen Lang is one awesome guy. It's so wonderful to see his passion for the history that he portrayed. Now I'm off to watch my favorite civil war movie, Gettysburg!
Hello from Mexborough, UK. I have just watched this interview and I must say that I really enjoyed it. Stephen Lang is a really fine actor, and it was fascinating to hear his stories whilst making the movie. I developed an interest in the American Civil War about five years ago, and Gettysburg is one of my “go to” movies. I didn’t realise how brutal the fighting was and was unaware of the tactics used. The scenes of Picketts Charge in the movie really brought this home to me. I must agree that Stephen’s line “General Lee! I have no Division” brings tears to my eyes, it’s such a powerful statement! The second best line is from the late Richard Jordan as General Armistead lying wounded at the wall and when hearing of his friend General Hancock’s wounding, “No! Not the both of us!!”. It just goes to show the futility of war, no side really wins!
The movie Glory is the best Civil War movie starring Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, and Morgan Freeman. Gettysburg is pretty good. God's and Generals is neo-confederate propaganda. Maxwell pushes and propagates the "Lost cause" myth of the Confederacy.
I'm part of a volunteer group that goes up twice a year to do battlefield maintenance such as rebuilding fences, clearing brush, etc. They do this to get a "day of battle" appearance. The battlefield has no power lines or phone lines and as you approach the town, you feel you are in 1863. Hope you come to see it. I want to go to Stirling Bridge in the UK!
@@donchoq Actually every wealthy gated community neighborhood in the south has no power lines or cable lines, phone lines showing especially in Florida. However, every other neighborhood has them all over the place. There should be a federal law passed that forces these private power companies to put there lines in the ground. It's saver. Especially in states that have hurricanes. The US is really a third world country with amusement parks, sports coliseum palaces, and Hollywood. Actually 71% of the wealth is inherited from the original white, revolutionary, slave owning oligarchs, to this day. Most new wealth comes from Wallstreet(casino) Sports athletes, Hollywood actors, government officials.
Stephen’s portrayal of Pickett was fabulous. I didn’t know he worked so closely with the battlefield trust to save the character of Gettysburg. That’s great! We’re having the same fight to save the battlefields in the Shenandoah Valley. Stephen is quite versatile as an actor. I always enjoy his performances and would enjoy seeing him in a play.
I just returned from the 160th event at the Daniel Lady Farm. It was my fourth trip to Gettysburg and enjoyed each and every visit enormously, and will go again if the chance arises. My one disappointment was that the "General Pickett's Buffet" was closed this last trip. When I inquired as to why I was told, ""General Lee, I have no buffet." Thank you Mr. Lang for your inspiration, your love of history, your respect for the reenactors, and for the memories and stories. God bless you, Sir.
That buffet has been slated for destruction as that part of the battlefield is being reclaimed. The joke used to be that Pickets Charge would have succeeded if he hadn't stopped for lunch at the buffet.
Gettysburg was/is one of the best war movies ever made, alongside ZULU. As an amateur history buff, and a former Royal Australian Artillery Sgt, I have always had an appreciation of the magnitude of the American Civil War, being the most devastating war in history fought by a common people of one nation, an estimated 600,000+ people died, compared to the population of Australia at the same time was just over a million people, a true tragedy. Stephen Lang is a wonderful actor, and person.
What a charming gentleman Stephen Lang is. What a wonderful film "Gettysburg" was. I am still moved whenever I watch it and all but cry when I listen to that powerful overture. Why we permit our history to be altered and destroyed I do not know. What a crime of pure ignorance! What an insult to all who died on those Pennsylvania farm fields 160 years ago so that those who came after would have a better life.
I met and had a very delightful conversation in front of the Avenue Restaurant with Mr Lang at the Gettysburg 150th in June of 2013. I admire his work and he is very genuine.
Dear David and Stephen, thank you for taking the time to film this wonderful and insightful interview. Moreover, thank you for the outstanding contributions that both of you have and continue to make toward preserving our history and historical battlefields/sites and telling the story of our history in the most effective way possible. Your work is most sincerely appreciated.
I love how Stephen Lang said at the end "you don't know where you're going, if you don't know where you've been." We have to be careful how we interpret and destroy or gloss over our past. We must look at the good and the bad and not be afraid to face who we are and why we are. Thanks for this presentation.
" The Yankees got all the smart ones ,and look where it's got them. " 😁😅 There are so many great lines from General Picket in that film. I watch it often , and he brought Pickett to life like no other could . ❤
One thing for sure if I could meet any actors I would want to meet him, Jeff Daniels, Tom Berenger, C Thomas Howell, Patrick Gorman, Donald louge, James Patrick Stewart and Matt Letscher.
I am so grateful for this interview with Stephen Lang. He is a very fine actor who has portrayed two iconic figures from our Civil War past very admirably. I also was impressed by his rendition of Ike Clanton in "Tombstone." I truly hope he might someday agree to portray General Tecumseh Sherman, as I think he would be a perfect choice. I shall always think of his portrayal of General Picket with fondness and respect. He brought a very human perspective to the role. This was a great interview.
I loved lang in both movies (Gettysburg and gods and generals) and he did a great job playing as both and convincing you he wasn’t Pickett. I recently got the docuseries on the civil war and Stephen lang is the narrator. Love his voice, I could listen to him narrate a battle for hours.
I was very fortunate to have parents who loved history - especially my father, a Naval officer. Our family outings and vacations tended to feature historical sites. I was too young to remember much from when we lived in Charleston, but then we moved to Virginia, and went several times to Williamsburg and Jamestown, and Yorktown, as well as Fredericksburg and Gettysburg. I was raised to love history, and this film was a great illustration of it.
At 64, I have been a student of the American Civil War almost all of my life. When I was 5, we left Brooklyn NY, and moved to Manassas VA, where I grew up and attended Stonewall Jackson High School. I have been over every inch of that NBP on foot, and horseback. In the 70s, I could get to Gettysburg in 50 minutes between morning and afternoon rush hour. I went there a lot as well as Harper's Ferry, another favorite NBP. This film is one of the very best on the period and Stephen Lang is one of my most favorite actors.
Excellent interview. It’s great to know that we still have great actors such as Stephen Lang that have a love for American history. Well done and “thank you” General Pickett!
My husband is the file closer over Lang's shoulder in the horse "slide into third base" scene. Lang was a favorite of all the reenactors on location. Totally in to the character of Pickett, and a great horseman. Husband later met him one on one on set of Gods and Generals. Super nice guy, and very appreciative of the reenactors. Excellent conversation here, thanks. Cheers
Thank you, I very much enjoyed this interview with Mr. Stephen Lang. I am not American but I have thirty books which I treasure on the American Civil War.
An excellent interview filled with lots of interesting things and lessons that are always pertinent to any time. Kind Thanks, Many Blessings and Where We Go One We Go All! DaveyJO in Pennsylvania
Huge fan of Stephen Lang. I was 18 in '93, he played Gen.Pickett, & Ike Clanton, burned into my memory.👍 glad they posted this interview so a person can get to listen him just talk 🙂
A wonderful visit with Mr. Lang, who displayed not only his talents as an actor but his love and appreciation for history in general and Gettysburg in particular. Thank you, sir!
I've enjoyed Stephan Lang in any role he's played but there is no one else that could have played George Pickett and especially the role of Thomas Jackson than Mr. lang.
One of the most underrated underappreciated actor that has ever graced the stage and the silver screen watch all of his movies and this guy is pivotal in every performance
I've seen several interviews with Mr. Lang. I believe this was his best. He came across very intelligent, thoughtful and warm. I'm an even bigger fan as a result!
Glad to here Stephen talk about Tombstone. One of may favorite movies of all time and he's a big part of it. " Doc Holliday to Lang's Ike Clanton -- "I know. Let's have a spelling contest."
Stephen Lang played Pickett and Stonewall Jackson brilliantly! When I look back at my youth I will remember his part in Gettysburg and God's and generals. Now my young son is watching both these films! Thanks for making history come alive!
I was one of the Extras in Gods and Generals, part of the core group. He was special, when he practice his speech "you are the Forst Brigade" it gave me goose bumps
Much Respect. What a great interview about a Seminal event in American History. Gettysburg, the movie, had some critical elements but the acting and characters were often inspiring. Thankyou Mr Lang for, what I consider to be, the a most commendable performance and representation of General George Pickett, and an outstanding contribution to the movie.
I visited multiple battlefields with someone who was so Immersed in the subject matter that he could tell you every little detail about the Battle where you were. It was just amazing. Even to see the huge open spaces of Gettysburg and know these men had the courage to walk out in front of cannons and guns like that. These men were either innocent beyond naive or brave beyond belief. And I have a feeling it was a little above. I think the battlefield trust is so important.
@@pdoylemi you love America more then you love your own life. It's bravery beyond duty. Many of those charges should not have been made. I think it's heartbreaking to think of Americans killing one another in massive numbers. I have been a student of the Civil War since I was 17. I've Always been draw to the soldiers and their great bravery and tremendous sacrifice of life on both sides. They were all American. And I truly believe our country still suffers from the problems that were never really figured out during the Civil War or during reconstruction. Thank you for your service and your bravery my friend. We owe all of our armed forces the respect and honor they deserve. Both living and dead. And there is no country on this planet that should be more paternal to its soldiers than the United States. The United States government derives all its power from the great body of the people. And sometimes that great body of the people has been laid upon the altar of freedom.
@@matthew-jy5jp Yeah - at the time, what seems foolhardy today was probably the best chance to stay alive and win. And I agree that this country still suffers from problems that led to the Civil War, and I have no idea how to resolve them, even though I came close to being one of them. Growing up in the south in the 60's and 70's my history education in school was biased to put it mildly. As a kid, I idolized Confederate leaders, and believed all the lies I was told about the causes of the war. Fortunately, my father, a Naval officer and history buff with degrees in psychology and history set me straight eventually. He probably would have done it sooner, but he was away a lot, and when he was home we didn't talk much about school - he took time playing with us and doing all the dad things he had not been able to do. But one of those was a trip to Gettysburg, where I lamented that it was sad that Ewell failed to take the high ground on the first day. That's when he realized that, in my mind, the world would have been better if the south had won. I thank you for your sentiments. I am glad that I never had to lay down my life, nor did my father or brother, though we all came close a couple of times, and hopefully my niece and her husband, both active duty Army officers never have to. But I also respect the people who get out and protest, and those who fight the legal battles needed to keep us free, and those who simply get involved and vote and work for a better future.
Excellent interview! I was able to visit Gettysburg for the first time in my life this summer. It was a very humbling experience, and I applaud your efforts to preserve as much of it as possible.
I have always loved Mr. Lang, always wanted to shake his hand. I was born in 1985 but remember he was one of my earliest favorite actors. I was like 8 watching with my dad Gettysburg, he always stood out to me then I went into the military myself around the time God and Generals came out and was stationed in Virginia and because of that movie, I went out to Lexington Virginia, and northern Virginia to see the battlefields.
"General Lee, I have no division." One of the most powerful and telling scenes in cinema. Has stuck with me all these years.
It really does stick with you, glad I am not the only one.
Yes, you beat me to the comment - the line was compellingly delivered by Mr. Lang
It is especially great when you juxtapose it with the earlier scene where Longstreet, convinced he will lose, asks Pickett - "George, can you take that ridge?" and Picket just gets this big grin on his face and charges off to the battle - excited to have the chance to finally lead the charge. He went in to it cocksure that his Virginians were going to win a glorious victory... and then reality hit hard.
@pdoylemi Shelby Foote's commentary summarizing Gettysburg..
Me too
There are great actors and there are great people. Rarely do we get both in the same person. Thank you, Mr. Lang.
Exactly 💯
Of a Truth.
I love that he had no issue saying the Longstreet line. Very cool, great interview
Stephen Lang is a legend! I loved him as George and especially as Stonewall!!!
Me too. I also really love him as COL Quaritch in Avatar.
How about Ike Clanton in Tombstone?
He was awful as Stonewall but the movie itself was awful so he didn’t have much to work with.
@@DouglasLyons-yg3lvwhat evidence has led you to this conclusion?
@@5xq38p4uHe was brilliant at being a HATED character like IKE. Coward. Alcoholic. Sneaky little snake. Lols. That's how great of an actor Mr. Lang is.
"Up men! Up, and to your posts! And let no man forget today, that you are from...old...Virginia!" - Stephen Lang at the top of his game, having brought George Pickett back to life on the big screen.
Brilliant actor. Never felt lied to by a performance from him.
What did you mean never felt lied to by a performance from him? I don't get that part. Also he's a good actor.
@meathead6155 can always tell when actors are just in it for the paycheck. You know? What they call, "phoning it in". Lang never does that, just pick any of his roles. He doesn't do it. Serious actor, a good actor.
It is incredible to realize how different Ike Clanton, George Pickett, and Stonewall Jackson were as people upon knowing that Stephen Lang played each role to perfection.
Terrific actor. Dude is a Chameleon. Many people might not think Pickett, Ike Clanton and Quaritch are all the same guy. But they are.
I first saw him in "Band of the Hand", kind of 80s vibe Mann Film; Joe Tegra, a little dated but fun.
Wait? He's NOT IKE?
@@FrankinDallas i think you misread. Yes he played Ike in Tombstone. Read the casting for that movie. It's him.
Don't forget Agent Charles Winstead from Public Enemies
Thats right law dawg. Tombstone, another phenomenal cast
"Beyond Glory" - I recommend all you Stephen Lang fans see this! Incredible!
Thank you, I didn't know of this.
Stephen you hit the nail on the head; history is not being taught in schools like they used to be. We need to remember where we came from and remember our history good or bad. You are a brilliant actor and a wonderful human being. 💜💜💜
If only this was possible to do. Very little of what it takes to understand the USA is being taught these days. Civics hasn't been taught for over 50 years in this country and the vast majority of people that happen to be living this country now don't even understand anything about how our government is supposed to work anymore. Civil War history can't be imparted to our children by people that have no understanding of it themselves and very, very few teachers have any knowledge of history. Then there's type and volume of non-European immigration for whom Civil War history has no connection at all. We can see today that politicians are all too happy to distort history and use it to pander to people that just want to profit from that. There are changes that must be made if this country is ever to be a nation again that I'm afraid will never be made by the present regime.
@@karlheinzvonkroemann2217Why exactly is it “non-European immigrants” that have no connection to US Civil War history? Don’t ALL immigrants by nature have no connection to the history of the country they immigrate to? Tell us what you _really_ mean.
Unfortunately, many places in the old Confederacy, especially Florida, have renewed their old efforts to whitewash history and remove all the bad parts because it “offends” them (ironic since these are the same people who cried about over sensitivity and censorship).
@@karlheinzvonkroemann2217it appears today politicians learned from Lincoln well.
@@Zarastro54Don’t think it matter much where you come from but more if you have an inclination to history. Not a lot of people has that. % wise. Perhaps if one is born in the country (USA)parents supposedly can teach or try to teach their kids about the civil war although I feel there is such a misunderstanding on the whole event that many times cliche and propaganda end up to be taught and very little history.
I happen to be a European immigrant (god bless America and her funding principles ) have been to few battlefield so far, Gettysburg, manassas, Yorktown, Saratoga and look forward to visit Chikamauga soon! Studied the history of this great country and admire the funding fathers enlightened views particularly Thomas Jefferson. It is great to have the American battlefield trust here to promote the history and most importantly preserve it. Physically. I always try to donate what I can to support battlefield preservation as it is truly something that should not be lost.
I was a drummer boy at the filming of at the time "The Killer Angels ". Mr. Lang autographed the bottom head of my drum.
I loved Stephen Lang as Pickett or Jackson, as much as I despised him as Clanton. I think he's one of the very finest actors of our day.
One thing that isn't given enough credit is the music in the film. When Longstreet (who looks distraught) asks Pickett, "George, can you take that ridge?" And Pickett says nothing and just grins - the way the music hits when he grins - that's brilliant filmaking right there - still gives me chills.
Great soundtrack. I have played it many times.
It makes God's and Generals even more infuriating. The music in Gettysburg is spectacular. Perfectly balanced emotional themes that balance the sides and are not *to* heroic for the south.
terrific wisdom from Stephen lang about democracy and communication.
"General Longstreet, may I commence the attack?" Lt. Gen. James Longstreet (Tom Berenger) just nods his head up and down knowing what is going to happen to Maj. Gen. George Pickett (Stephen Lang) and his division on the Third Day @ Gettysburg! Terrific film and terrific actor. Lang just brings a sense of charm and wit to his characters.
Thank you for Gettysburg, Would love to see Last Full Measure finally made to round out the trilogy
Both movies flopped, I doubt we will get TLF unfortunately.
Perhaps a streaming service will eventually make it. Media has changed so much since 1992.
@@odinsavenger4965 I can understand the box office issue, however, the longevity of especially Gettysburg can't be denied. It made a great historical contribution to the Civil War (ok not entirely accurate from many folks perspectives. But it did and still does raise interest in perhaps seminal event in the History of the United States.
The reason Last Full measure wasn't made because most of the financing was coming from people that wanted Maxwell replaced as Director. Many people thought he pushed the Confederate "lost cause" myth beyond the pale, in God's and Generals. To this date Glory is the best Civil War movie starring Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, and Morgan Freeman.
Gettysburg was supposed to be a series on TV but never got released. I think it would worked well as a serial.
I personally think as a movie it is no great work but has its moments.
Superb interview-thank you Mr. Lang!!
Stephen, you were resplendent in your portrayal of Pickett. Timeless..
I loved his performance in Gods and Generals. Oscar worthy in my opinion.
I agree! Tremendous. However the movie itself was pure neo-confederate propaganda pushing the "lost cause" myth of the Confederacy.
George Pickett, what a cavalier! Mr Lang portrayed him so well. He is my favourite character in the film. Picketts wry smile after being asked if he could take the hill on the 3rd day is legendary.
Pickett very much liked Abraham Lincoln…he knew him personally before the war
“Democracy is a discussion.” Best quote I’ve heard in a long time. I love him as an actor; after this interview, I really respect his love and knowledge of history and it’s importance to our future. It was also fun hearing all the behind-the-scenes stories. Shakespeare is always a good audition for anything.
This is true. It’s what worries me about a growing cancel culture.
"History does not repeat, but it does rhyme.." Mark Twain
I love Stephan Lang’s roles through the years, he seems like a really great guy
30 Jahre danach - schön das sich Lang immer noch zu seiner Rolle als Pickett bekennt ! Aller Ehren wert.
*I've had almost no chance to see live theater, but Stephen Lang's performances as "Happy" in "Death of a Salesman," as George Pickett in "Gettysburg" and as Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson in "Gods and Generals" have made him my favorite actor.*
Ike Clanton !! You villainous murdering fiend !!! What a brilliant actor and obviously one of the good guys. Thanks for posting.
I love Stephen Lang like he is one of my favorite actors and he is my favorite actor because of his role in the movies Gettysburg, Gods and generals and the Avatar Franchise.
Such a fantastic actor and human being. Thanks for this wonderful interview.
Steven Lang is an incredible character actor, and his rolls as General Pickett and General Jackson are his best in my opinion.
I met Mr. Lang at the 150th, and was so impressed with his warm and presence and his involvement!
I remember the scene when Longstreet asks Pickett if he can "take that ridge"..Pickett (Lang) didn't say anything, but instead gave a smirk of confidence.
I had the honor of chatting with Stephen a couple of times while on the set. He had apparently found some good fishing in the area.
"Up men! and to your posts! and let know man here forget today, your from Old Virginia!" Fires me up everytime Stephen says that before the march.
Probably our favorite between my father and uncles. Stephen Lang was perfect in his role. First time I ever saw Stephen Lang in a movie. When we always saw the introduction credits and saw Pickett we would always say “There’s Pickett!!” Everyone was perfect in their roles but Lang was definitely my favorite among them for his change in the movie where he was so positive and then at the end his final line “General Lee, I have no division.” Perfect.
Will always remember his beaming smile as Pickett. Mr. Lang is a national treasure.
I LOVED Mr. Lang in this movie. He embodied the Southern charm in Pickett. A showman with his comrades and once he was on the battlefield, he brought fiesty, fiery, and fierce persona of General Pickett.
Met this sweet and wonderful man as he came down the steps in the museum at VMI as we were looking at the taxidermied Little Sorrel... Stonewall Jackson's war horse...I had just finished doing 2 days of shooting Gods and Generals as an extra (I unfortunately wound on the cutting room floor). He and a couple of his children were very gracious...we spoke for several minutes and he signed an autograph and posed with us for pictures...an extremely talented and grounded individual. He is as he presents to the public. My dear friend Jim Choate who portrays General Bee in the movie whose memorable line names Jackson for posterity "there stands Jackson like a stone wall come rally round the Virginians boys" agreed that Stephen Lang was a fantastic actor to work with. I will fondly remember both of these actors forever. Fran Przybylowski
Met Mr Lang while filming God's and Generals. I was a young reenactor and he made time to take pics and talk with us. Very nice guy. Love his movies and hearing him speak.
Steven is a very humble man. I met him on the set of the movie The VFW. A great conversation we had including the movie Gettysburg.
Lang is an actor who can completely immerse himself in a role. That makes for great actors.
Mr. Lang is a great character actor especially in "Early American" roles. I loved ALL the actor portrayals in Gettysburg. Well cast film. And the fact that he is helping ABT causes makes him "invaluable". I would love to se an interview with Sam Elliot (!) and some of the actors and re-enactors.
Nice to see & hear Mr Duncan in action....(member ABT).
Stephen Lang is one awesome guy. It's so wonderful to see his passion for the history that he portrayed. Now I'm off to watch my favorite civil war movie, Gettysburg!
Stephen Lang, as Ike Clanton, was the best western antagonist I've seen since John Ford was making westerns.
A Constitutional Republic stands alone beyond discussion, we understand our past and future.
Hello from Mexborough, UK. I have just watched this interview and I must say that I really enjoyed it. Stephen Lang is a really fine actor, and it was fascinating to hear his stories whilst making the movie. I developed an interest
in the American Civil War
about five years ago, and
Gettysburg is one of my “go
to” movies. I didn’t realise how
brutal the fighting was and
was unaware of the tactics
used. The scenes of Picketts
Charge in the movie really
brought this home to me. I must agree that Stephen’s line “General Lee! I have no Division” brings tears to my eyes, it’s such a powerful
statement!
The second best line is from the late Richard Jordan as General Armistead lying wounded at the wall and when hearing of his friend General Hancock’s wounding, “No! Not the both of us!!”.
It just goes to show the futility of war, no side really wins!
The movie Glory is the best Civil War movie starring Matthew Broderick, Denzel Washington, and Morgan Freeman. Gettysburg is pretty good. God's and Generals is neo-confederate propaganda. Maxwell pushes and propagates the "Lost cause" myth of the Confederacy.
Nothing except a battle lost can be half so melancholy as a battle won.
Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington.
I'm part of a volunteer group that goes up twice a year to do battlefield maintenance such as rebuilding fences, clearing brush, etc. They do this to get a "day of battle" appearance. The battlefield has no power lines or phone lines and as you approach the town, you feel you are in 1863. Hope you come to see it. I want to go to Stirling Bridge in the UK!
@@donchoq Actually every wealthy gated community neighborhood in the south has no power lines or cable lines, phone lines showing especially in Florida. However, every other neighborhood has them all over the place. There should be a federal law passed that forces these private power companies to put there lines in the ground. It's saver. Especially in states that have hurricanes. The US is really a third world country with amusement parks, sports coliseum palaces, and Hollywood. Actually 71% of the wealth is inherited from the original white, revolutionary, slave owning oligarchs, to this day. Most new wealth comes from Wallstreet(casino) Sports athletes, Hollywood actors, government officials.
Stephen’s portrayal of Pickett was fabulous. I didn’t know he worked so closely with the battlefield trust to save the character of Gettysburg. That’s great! We’re having the same fight to save the battlefields in the Shenandoah Valley. Stephen is quite versatile as an actor. I always enjoy his performances and would enjoy seeing him in a play.
I just returned from the 160th event at the Daniel Lady Farm. It was my fourth trip to Gettysburg and enjoyed each and every visit enormously, and will go again if the chance arises. My one disappointment was that the "General Pickett's Buffet" was closed this last trip. When I inquired as to why I was told, ""General Lee, I have no buffet."
Thank you Mr. Lang for your inspiration, your love of history, your respect for the reenactors, and for the memories and stories.
God bless you, Sir.
That buffet has been slated for destruction as that part of the battlefield is being reclaimed. The joke used to be that Pickets Charge would have succeeded if he hadn't stopped for lunch at the buffet.
Gettysburg was/is one of the best war movies ever made, alongside ZULU.
As an amateur history buff, and a former Royal Australian Artillery Sgt, I have always had an appreciation of the magnitude of the American Civil War, being the most devastating war in history fought by a common people of one nation, an estimated 600,000+ people died, compared to the population of Australia at the same time was just over a million people, a true tragedy.
Stephen Lang is a wonderful actor, and person.
What a charming gentleman Stephen Lang is. What a wonderful film "Gettysburg" was. I am still moved whenever I watch it and all but cry when I listen to that powerful overture. Why we permit our history to be altered and destroyed I do not know. What a crime of pure ignorance! What an insult to all who died on those Pennsylvania farm fields 160 years ago so that those who came after would have a better life.
In a film with a multitude of outstanding performances, Lang’s scenes were all powerful. He really gave life to Maj Gen Pickett.
Stephen Lang is such an underrated actor.
I met and had a very delightful conversation in front of the Avenue Restaurant with Mr Lang at the Gettysburg 150th in June of 2013. I admire his work and he is very genuine.
Dear David and Stephen, thank you for taking the time to film this wonderful and insightful interview. Moreover, thank you for the outstanding contributions that both of you have and continue to make toward preserving our history and historical battlefields/sites and telling the story of our history in the most effective way possible. Your work is most sincerely appreciated.
Stephen Lang is one of America's greatest character actors. Brilliant guy.
I love how Stephen Lang said at the end "you don't know where you're going, if you don't know where you've been." We have to be careful how we interpret and destroy or gloss over our past. We must look at the good and the bad and not be afraid to face who we are and why we are. Thanks for this presentation.
" The Yankees got all the smart ones ,and look where it's got them. " 😁😅 There are so many great lines from General Picket in that film. I watch it often , and he brought Pickett to life like no other could . ❤
One thing for sure if I could meet any actors I would want to meet him, Jeff Daniels, Tom Berenger, C Thomas Howell, Patrick Gorman, Donald louge, James Patrick Stewart and Matt Letscher.
I am so grateful for this interview with Stephen Lang. He is a very fine actor who has portrayed two iconic figures from our Civil War past very admirably. I also was impressed by his rendition of Ike Clanton in "Tombstone." I truly hope he might someday agree to portray General Tecumseh Sherman, as I think he would be a perfect choice. I shall always think of his portrayal of General Picket with fondness and respect. He brought a very human perspective to the role. This was a great interview.
I loved lang in both movies (Gettysburg and gods and generals) and he did a great job playing as both and convincing you he wasn’t Pickett. I recently got the docuseries on the civil war and Stephen lang is the narrator. Love his voice, I could listen to him narrate a battle for hours.
I was very fortunate to have parents who loved history - especially my father, a Naval officer. Our family outings and vacations tended to feature historical sites. I was too young to remember much from when we lived in Charleston, but then we moved to Virginia, and went several times to Williamsburg and Jamestown, and Yorktown, as well as Fredericksburg and Gettysburg. I was raised to love history, and this film was a great illustration of it.
At 64, I have been a student of the American Civil War almost all of my life. When I was 5, we left Brooklyn NY, and moved to Manassas VA, where I grew up and attended Stonewall Jackson High School. I have been over every inch of that NBP on foot, and horseback. In the 70s, I could get to Gettysburg in 50 minutes between morning and afternoon rush hour. I went there a lot as well as Harper's Ferry, another favorite NBP. This film is one of the very best on the period and Stephen Lang is one of my most favorite actors.
I could listen to Stephen Lang all day, wonderful interview & insight into the movie.
PS, that’s Moxley Sorrell top left in the photo, not Taylor
Excellent interview. It’s great to know that we still have great actors such as Stephen Lang that have a love for American history. Well done and “thank you” General Pickett!
A wonderful and thoughtful actor and a memorable presentation from David and the American Battlefield Trust. Thank you.
My husband is the file closer over Lang's shoulder in the horse "slide into third base" scene. Lang was a favorite of all the reenactors on location. Totally in to the character of Pickett, and a great horseman. Husband later met him one on one on set of Gods and Generals. Super nice guy, and very appreciative of the reenactors. Excellent conversation here, thanks. Cheers
What a great man and great actor.
My favorite actor. loved him as Jackson.
I had an acute awakening about Pickett after Langs portrayal of him after the defeat.
A truly epic film and good to see you doing well sir. Wishing you a happy birthday Stephen!
Thank you, I very much enjoyed this interview with Mr. Stephen Lang. I am not American but I have thirty books which I treasure on the American Civil War.
What a fascinating talk. Remarkable.
Wonderful discussion, wonderful actor and personality. One of my favorite actors.
Thank you Mr. Lang - thank you for your great acting and your stories from the film and history. Thank You
An excellent interview filled with lots of interesting things and lessons that are always pertinent to any time. Kind Thanks, Many Blessings and Where We Go One We Go All! DaveyJO in Pennsylvania
Huge fan of Stephen Lang. I was 18 in '93, he played Gen.Pickett, & Ike Clanton, burned into my memory.👍 glad they posted this interview so a person can get to listen him just talk 🙂
A wonderful visit with Mr. Lang, who displayed not only his talents as an actor but his love and appreciation for history in general and Gettysburg in particular. Thank you, sir!
I've enjoyed Stephan Lang in any role he's played but there is no one else that could have played George Pickett and especially the role of Thomas Jackson than Mr. lang.
Great conversation about a great film. Thank you gentlemen.
Thanks great historian and actor God bless you been civil war historian since 1989
One of the most underrated underappreciated actor that has ever graced the stage and the silver screen watch all of his movies and this guy is pivotal in every performance
The most awesome thing about the photo of Lang and all the other actors in uniform is that it GENUINELY looks of that time. Great actors!
I've seen several interviews with Mr. Lang. I believe this was his best. He came across very intelligent, thoughtful and warm.
I'm an even bigger fan as a result!
Hoorah! Thank you George Pickett for this interview.
What an amazing job he did in not only Gettysburg but God and Generals as well. I'm still blown away by how well he played these parts.
Thanks!
Glad to here Stephen talk about Tombstone. One of may favorite movies of all time and he's a big part of it. " Doc Holliday to Lang's Ike Clanton -- "I know. Let's have a spelling contest."
Mr. Lang should have gotten an Oscar for Gettysburg.
Stephen Lang played Pickett and Stonewall Jackson brilliantly! When I look back at my youth I will remember his part in Gettysburg and God's and generals. Now my young son is watching both these films! Thanks for making history come alive!
I was one of the Extras in Gods and Generals, part of the core group. He was special, when he practice his speech "you are the Forst Brigade" it gave me goose bumps
Much Respect. What a great interview about a Seminal event in American History. Gettysburg, the movie, had some critical elements but the acting and characters were often inspiring. Thankyou Mr Lang for, what I consider to be, the a most commendable performance and representation of General George Pickett, and an outstanding contribution to the movie.
I visited multiple battlefields with someone who was so Immersed in the subject matter that he could tell you every little detail about the Battle where you were. It was just amazing. Even to see the huge open spaces of Gettysburg and know these men had the courage to walk out in front of cannons and guns like that. These men were either innocent beyond naive or brave beyond belief. And I have a feeling it was a little above. I think the battlefield trust is so important.
I am a veteran, and how anybody fought those battles is beyond me. Just marching in formation into withering fire - how do you DO that?
@@pdoylemi you love America more then you love your own life. It's bravery beyond duty. Many of those charges should not have been made. I think it's heartbreaking to think of Americans killing one another in massive numbers. I have been a student of the Civil War since I was 17. I've Always been draw to the soldiers and their great bravery and tremendous sacrifice of life on both sides. They were all American. And I truly believe our country still suffers from the problems that were never really figured out during the Civil War or during reconstruction.
Thank you for your service and your bravery my friend. We owe all of our armed forces the respect and honor they deserve. Both living and dead. And there is no country on this planet that should be more paternal to its soldiers than the United States. The United States government derives all its power from the great body of the people. And sometimes that great body of the people has been laid upon the altar of freedom.
@@matthew-jy5jp
Yeah - at the time, what seems foolhardy today was probably the best chance to stay alive and win. And I agree that this country still suffers from problems that led to the Civil War, and I have no idea how to resolve them, even though I came close to being one of them. Growing up in the south in the 60's and 70's my history education in school was biased to put it mildly. As a kid, I idolized Confederate leaders, and believed all the lies I was told about the causes of the war. Fortunately, my father, a Naval officer and history buff with degrees in psychology and history set me straight eventually. He probably would have done it sooner, but he was away a lot, and when he was home we didn't talk much about school - he took time playing with us and doing all the dad things he had not been able to do. But one of those was a trip to Gettysburg, where I lamented that it was sad that Ewell failed to take the high ground on the first day. That's when he realized that, in my mind, the world would have been better if the south had won.
I thank you for your sentiments. I am glad that I never had to lay down my life, nor did my father or brother, though we all came close a couple of times, and hopefully my niece and her husband, both active duty Army officers never have to. But I also respect the people who get out and protest, and those who fight the legal battles needed to keep us free, and those who simply get involved and vote and work for a better future.
Excellent interview! I was able to visit Gettysburg for the first time in my life this summer. It was a very humbling experience, and I applaud your efforts to preserve as much of it as possible.
Good to see Mr. Stephen Lang is still VERY passionate about "Gettysburg" and film making in general.
I always loved Stephen Lang. His journey to loving history is nearly exactly like mine.
The more and more I see him the more and more I absolutely respect and love.
Great actor and great friend of the battilefield trust and American History.
Absolutely love Stephen Lang!!! Thanks for sharing this interview!!
I'm sure Mr Pickett was pleased with your
performance As we all did sir Thank you
Your work in Tombstone So Well Done
Gettysburg is sacred
I have always loved Mr. Lang, always wanted to shake his hand. I was born in 1985 but remember he was one of my earliest favorite actors. I was like 8 watching with my dad Gettysburg, he always stood out to me then I went into the military myself around the time God and Generals came out and was stationed in Virginia and because of that movie, I went out to Lexington Virginia, and northern Virginia to see the battlefields.
Great interview! Thanks.
first rate interview of a first rate man and actor! well done.
Stunning Interview