The Crossing (2000)

Early December, 1776.  With his army retreating from the British, General Washington (Jeff Daniels) is forced to steal boats to get across the river to the comparative safety of Pennsylvania. In the 6 months since the Declaration of Independence, Washington had suffered defeat after defeat.  His army has shrunk to 2000 men, many of whom would go home when their service concluded at the end of the month.  Then there was news from the Continental Congress; they have retreated to Baltimore since Philadelphia was now undefended.  General Gates suggested surrender.  It was indeed bleak.  However, intelligence arrived that 1200 Hessians were stationed at Trenton, just across the Delaware River.  Washington proposed a plan that most of his staff viewed as lunatic.  Hessians were the best troops in Europe while Washington had volunteer farmers.  Nonetheless, he pressed forward with his plan.  If he didn't do something, the revolution was indeed over.

Daniels is good as Washington.  In his hands, Washington comes to life as a real person rather than a mythic figure.  The only quibble would be his comment about Henry Knox's balls.  Beyond Washington, this is the tale of Colonel John Glover (Sebastian Roche), who managed the boats.  This may be Glover's first appearance on film.  Among Washington's officers are Lt. Alexander Hamilton, General Hugh Mercer, General William 'Lord' Stirling, and General Nathaniel Greene, most of whom became major figures of the revolution or the early republic.  There are a couple of details left out of the movie.  First, the Hessian commander had an unopened letter that revealed Washington's impending attack.  Second, James Monroe, future president, was part of the attack.  He was seriously wounded in the action.  However, he was not party of the Crossing, as he was already in New Jersey.

This is a terrific movie and a great glimpse at a pivotal point in the revolution.  Highly recommended.