This 2 1/2 hour movie did not seem like 2 1/2 hours because of the outstanding acting of Daniel Day-lewis, Sally Fields, and the entire cast. The familiar faces of TV and film in this movie were not distracting to me at all (like some reviewers have said) because the acting was superb! The diaglogue was long at times, but written very well and the humor included added to the realism. I found the story to be not only entertaining but educational as well. I highly recommend this movie to those who enjoy American history, excellent acting, and strong dialogue. If you are not into American history or movies with a lot of talking, then this isn't for you.