The Private History of a Campaign That Failed

Synopsis

"The Private History of a Campaign That Failed" is a 1981 film featuring Joseph Adams, adapted from a short story by Mark Twain. The movie unfolds during the American Civil War, focusing on a group of inexperienced and untrained soldiers who form a makeshift militia. As they embark on a campaign with high hopes, their lack of preparation and understanding of war leads to a series of comedic and poignant events. The film blends humor with the realities of war, exploring themes of youth, courage, and the often absurd nature of conflict. Through its narrative, the movie offers a satirical look at the romanticism of war and the personal journeys of those caught in its wake.

Cast

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  Joseph Adams

  Capt. Tom Lyman

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  Harry Crosby

  Cpl. Ed Stevens

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  William Youmans

  Dunlap

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  Cynthia Nixon

  Sue Ellen

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  Pat Hingle

  Col. Ralls

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  Edward Herrmann

  The Stranger

Reviews

The Private History of a Campaign That Failed garnered mixed to positive reviews upon its release. On IMDb, it holds a respectable score of 7.2/10, indicating a generally favorable reception among viewers. Critics have praised the film for its faithful adaptation of Twain's satirical story and the performances of the lead actors, including Joseph Adams. Reviews often highlight the film's balance between humor and the somber realities of war, noting that it offers a unique perspective compared to more traditional war dramas. However, some critics pointed out pacing issues and felt that the film's modest production budget limited its impact. Rotten Tomatoes does not have an aggregated critic score for this film, reflecting its status as a lesser-known title. Overall, reviewers appreciate the movie's charm and literary roots, though it may appeal more to fans of historical and literary adaptations rather than mainstream audiences.