The 10 Spectacular Vietnam Movies That Will Leave You Breathless
1. Apocalypse Now
8.4/10
Apocalypse Now is a 1979 war film directed by Francis Ford Coppola. Set during the Vietnam War, the movie follows Captain Benjamin L. Willard (played by Martin Sheen) as he embarks on a dangerous mission to assassinate Colonel Walter E. Kurtz (played by Marlon Brando), who has gone rogue and established his own army deep in the Cambodian jungle.
Pros
- The cinematography in Apocalypse Now is visually stunning. The lush, tropical landscapes and gritty war scenes are beautifully filmed, creating a visually immersive experience for the audience.
- The performances in Apocalypse Now are outstanding. Martin Sheen, Marlon Brando, and the rest of the cast deliver powerful and memorable performances that bring the characters to life.
Cons
- The film’s runtime is quite long, clocking in at over two and a half hours. Some viewers may find it challenging to maintain their focus for the entire duration of the film.
- Apocalypse Now is a dark and intense film that deals with heavy themes of war and the human psyche. It may not be suitable for more sensitive viewers or those looking for light-hearted entertainment.
Conclusion: Apocalypse Now is a masterpiece of cinema, with its gripping storytelling, stunning visuals, and powerful performances. While it may not be suitable for everyone due to its intense and dark nature, it is undoubtedly one of the greatest war films ever made.
2. Full Metal Jacket
8.3
Full Metal Jacket is a 1987 war film directed by Stanley Kubrick. The movie follows a group of young recruits in the United States Marine Corps and their experiences during basic training and later, the Vietnam War. The film explores the dehumanizing effects of war and the psychological impact it has on soldiers.
Pros
- Powerful portrayal of the physical and psychological effects of war
- Brilliant performances, particularly by R. Lee Ermey as Gunnery Sergeant Hartman
Cons
- The film’s second half doesn’t quite match the intensity of the first half
- Some viewers may find the graphic violence disturbing
Conclusion: Full Metal Jacket is a harrowing and thought-provoking film that offers a unique perspective on the Vietnam War. Despite a few minor flaws, it remains a highly impactful and memorable piece of cinema.
3. The Deer Hunter
8.1
The Deer Hunter is a 1978 American epic war drama film directed by Michael Cimino and starring Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken, John Savage, John Cazale, and Meryl Streep. Set amidst the Vietnam War, the film revolves around three young steelworkers from Pennsylvania who enlist in the Army and are sent to fight in Vietnam. The movie explores the impact of war on the individual, friendship, and the human spirit. It is a powerful and emotional examination of the physical and psychological toll of combat.
Pros
- The Deer Hunter is a visually stunning film with breathtaking cinematography that captures both the beauty and brutality of war.
- The performances in the movie are exceptional, especially Robert De Niro and Christopher Walken, who deliver powerful and nuanced performances that are both heartbreaking and captivating.
Cons
- The length of the movie, at over three hours, may be a turn-off for some viewers who prefer shorter films.
- The graphic depiction of violence and the intense and disturbing scenes may be too intense for some viewers.
Conclusion: The Deer Hunter is a masterful film that explores the psychological and emotional impact of war on individuals. It is a powerful and haunting portrayal of the human experience in times of conflict. While the movie may not be suitable for all audiences due to its length and graphic content, it is a viewing experience that should not be missed for those who appreciate powerful storytelling and exceptional performances.
4. Platoon
8.1/10
Platoon is a war drama film released in 1986. Directed by Oliver Stone, the movie follows a young soldier named Chris Taylor who is serving in the Vietnam War. The film showcases the brutal reality and moral ambiguity of war, as Taylor finds himself caught between two sergeants with contrasting leadership styles.
Through the eyes of Chris Taylor, the audience is taken on a journey that explores the psychological and physical tolls of war. Platoon received critical acclaim for its realistic portrayal of war and its impact on the soldiers involved. It won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, and continues to be regarded as one of the greatest war films ever made.
Pros
- Realistic portrayal of the Vietnam War: Platoon is known for its gritty and authentic depiction of the Vietnam War. The film captures the chaos, brutality, and moral ambiguity of war, showcasing the psychological and physical tolls it takes on the soldiers.
- Strong performances: Platoon features a talented cast, including Charlie Sheen, Tom Berenger, and Willem Dafoe. The actors deliver powerful performances that bring depth and nuance to their characters, making the audience emotionally invested in their journeys.
Cons
- Graphic and intense scenes: Platoon contains graphic and intense scenes that depict the horrors of war. Some viewers may find these scenes disturbing or difficult to watch.
- Limited focus: While Platoon provides a compelling exploration of the Vietnam War, the film primarily focuses on the experiences of American soldiers. The perspective of Vietnamese civilians or soldiers is not extensively explored.
Conclusion: Platoon is a gripping and intense war drama that offers a realistic portrayal of the Vietnam War. With its strong performances and gritty depiction of the horrors of war, the film continues to be regarded as a classic in the genre.
5. Rescue Dawn
7.3
Rescue Dawn is a 2006 war drama film directed by Werner Herzog. The movie is based on the true story of Dieter Dengler, a U.S. Navy pilot who was shot down over Laos during the Vietnam War and taken captive. Dengler’s harrowing journey and ultimate rescue are depicted in this gripping and intense film.
Pros
- The movie is based on a true story, adding an extra layer of authenticity and emotional impact.
- Christian Bale delivers a powerhouse performance as Dieter Dengler, capturing the character’s resilience and determination.
Cons
- The pacing of the film can be slow at times, particularly in the beginning.
- The graphic depiction of torture and violence may be disturbing for some viewers.
Conclusion: Rescue Dawn is a gripping and intense war drama that tells the remarkable true story of Dieter Dengler. While it may have its slower moments, Christian Bale’s outstanding performance and the overall authenticity of the film make it a worthwhile watch for fans of war movies and true stories.
6. Good Morning, Vietnam
7.3
Good Morning, Vietnam is a 1987 comedy-drama film directed by Barry Levinson. It stars Robin Williams as an unorthodox and irreverent radio DJ during the Vietnam War. The film is based on the true story of Adrian Cronauer, a radio DJ who brought humor and popular music to the Armed Forces Radio Network in Saigon during the war.
Pros
- Robin Williams’ standout performance as Adrian Cronauer brings humor and heart to the film.
- The film effectively portrays the contrast between the brutality of war and the escapism provided by Cronauer’s radio show.
Cons
- Some critics have argued that the film downplays the darker aspects of the Vietnam War and focuses too heavily on comedy.
- The romantic subplot between Cronauer and a local woman feels underdeveloped and detracts from the main story.
Conclusion: Good Morning, Vietnam is a well-acted and entertaining film that offers a unique perspective on the Vietnam War. While it may not delve into the complexities of the conflict, it succeeds in capturing the spirit of humor and resilience in the face of adversity.
7. We Were Soldiers
7.1/10
We Were Soldiers is a war film released in 2002. It is based on the book “We Were Soldiers Once… and Young” by Lieutenant General Harold G. Moore and Joseph L. Galloway. The movie tells the true story of the Battle of Ia Drang during the Vietnam War, where a vastly outnumbered American battalion faced off against the North Vietnamese Army. Mel Gibson stars as Lt. Col. Hal Moore, the commander of the American forces, while Barry Pepper plays Sgt. Joe Galloway, a war correspondent who was at the battle.
Pros
- The movie accurately depicts the ferocity and intensity of the Battle of Ia Drang, providing a realistic portrayal of the horrors of war.
- Mel Gibson delivers a strong performance as Lt. Col. Hal Moore, portraying the character’s leadership, bravery, and determination in the face of overwhelming odds.
Cons
- Some critics argue that the movie portrays a one-sided view of the war, focusing primarily on the experiences of American soldiers and neglecting the perspective of the Vietnamese.
- The film’s pacing can be slow at times, which may test the patience of viewers who prefer fast-paced action.
Conclusion: We Were Soldiers is a powerful and gripping war film that offers an authentic portrayal of the Battle of Ia Drang. While it has its flaws, such as its narrow focus and occasional pacing issues, the movie successfully conveys the bravery and sacrifices of the soldiers involved in the conflict. It is a worthy watch for fans of war movies and those interested in the history of the Vietnam War.
8. Born on the Fourth of July
8.0
Born on the Fourth of July is a 1989 American biographical war drama film directed by Oliver Stone. The movie is based on the 1976 autobiography of the same name by Vietnam War veteran Ron Kovic.
Pros
- Powerful and emotional portrayal of the impact of war on a young man’s life.
- Tom Cruise delivers a standout performance as Ron Kovic, showcasing his talent as a dramatic actor.
Cons
- The pacing of the film can feel slow at times, particularly in the middle portion.
- The film focuses heavily on the anti-war sentiment, which may not appeal to all viewers.
Conclusion: Born on the Fourth of July is a gripping and thought-provoking film that explores the physical and psychological toll of war. Despite its slower pacing and heavy focus on anti-war sentiment, the powerful performances and compelling story make it a must-watch for fans of war dramas.
9. Hamburger Hill
6.7/10
Hamburger Hill is a war film released in 1987. It tells the story of the 1969 assault by the American military on a heavily fortified hill during the Vietnam War. The movie focuses on the soldiers of the 101st Airborne Division as they face numerous challenges and intense fighting to capture the hill, which was later dubbed “Hamburger Hill” due to the high number of casualties. The film portrays the harsh realities and futility of war while paying tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers involved.
Pros
- The movie provides a realistic and gritty portrayal of the Vietnam War, capturing the challenges and horrors faced by soldiers on the battlefield.
- The performances of the cast are exceptional, with standout performances from actors like Don Cheadle and Dylan McDermott, who bring depth and humanity to their respective characters.
Cons
- The movie can be quite graphic and intense, with scenes of violence and warfare that may be unsettling for some viewers.
- Some critics argue that the film lacks a strong narrative structure, focusing more on the visceral experience of war rather than a coherent storyline.
Conclusion: Hamburger Hill is a powerful and harrowing war film that offers a candid look at the Vietnam War. While it may not have a traditional narrative structure, its raw depiction of the horrors of war and the bravery of the soldiers makes it a compelling and important watch for those interested in military history and war films.
10. Platoon Leader
6.7/10
Platoon Leader is a 1988 war film directed by Aaron Norris. The movie centers around a young soldier, Lieutenant Jeff Knight, who is assigned as the new platoon leader of Bravo Company during the Vietnam War. As Jeff tries to earn the respect of his men and navigate the challenges of war, he must also confront the dilemmas of leadership and the moral complexities of the conflict.
Pros
- Authentic portrayal of the Vietnam War: Platoon Leader offers a gritty and realistic depiction of the Vietnam War, capturing the chaos, brutality, and emotional toll of combat.
- Strong performances: Michael Dudikoff delivers a compelling performance as Lieutenant Jeff Knight, showcasing the character’s growth and transformation throughout the film.
Cons
- Simplistic character development: While the film explores the challenges of leadership and the moral complexities of war, some viewers may find the character development to be lacking in depth and nuance.
- Predictable storyline: Platoon Leader follows a familiar narrative trajectory seen in many war films, which may result in a lack of surprises or unexpected twists.
Conclusion: Platoon Leader is a solid war film that offers an authentic portrayal of the Vietnam War and showcases a strong performance from Michael Dudikoff. While it may not offer much in terms of originality or complex character development, it is still an engaging and compelling movie for fans of the genre.