I've had this one on the list for quite a while, but I've been watching so many war movies, sometimes I want to spread out the heavy ones. It's been on a few of the lists I've seen of the best war movies.
The movie tells the story of a new entry into the Vietnam War, played by Charlie Sheen. He dropped out of college to do his duty to the country, but he quickly learns it isn't what he expected. Not only is he dealing with the NVA, there is a power struggle going on within the platoon itself. As time passes, the internal struggle boils over, and it affects the entire outfit.
The movie was about on par with what I expected. From the little I know about the Vietnam War, the horror and booby trap strategy was something I was familiar with. I think the thing that surprised me the most was that Oliver Stone write this movie based on his own experiences in Vietnam. I had no idea he'd been there, and it made me want to know more about him as a person.
I understand why the movie is highly regarded. War is messy, and bringing light to that mess is something that needs to happen. I commend Mr. Stone for his efforts. On a personal level, while I think it was a good movie, I don't think I'll watch it again, and I wasn't as invested in it as some of the others I've watched. It still easily earns a Good Movie! review, it just didn't fly high enough to knock some of my favorites off their perches.
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