Review of Apocalypse Now (1979) by Damian S — 16 Aug 2018

The most gritty and realistic war film ever.

I suggest watching Apocalypse Now as the theatrical version, which contains all the essential story elements with great pacing, instead of the bloated and overly long Redux version that has been released. Apocalypse Now is eternally haunting. I find it the most gruesome and thoughtful movie about the effects of extended warfare ever captured on film.

Apocalypse Now is a must watch war film for any number of reasons. Francis Ford Coppola went through such a nightmare to film it, it would be a shame not to watch it at all. His trouble were well worth the effort. Every shot is gorgeous or disturbing. Beautiful Vietnam scenery offset by bloody violence and garish atrocity. Coppola has mastered the art of displaying frighteningly real elements alongside various character studies. The real Napalm strike, helicopter air ride, boat journey, to the disquieting ending are all worth the price of admission.

Eerie, atmospheric sounds and creepy score throbbing throughout the film, make Apocalypse Now a timeless piece on how to build a tone. From the occasional narration from Martin Sheen's character to the constant mention of Kurtz' accomplishments, Apocalypse Now is a crescendo of madness. The screams of soldiers and civilians alike echo throughout the ears of audiences forever. Every scene depicts more horrors for your eyes to feast on. I guarantee this movie will upset and disturb you at times. It is like no other war movie. No glorification of American military pride and patriotism, but rather a full display of the monstrosity of man.

I must mention that Apocalypse Now is easily Martin Sheen's greatest performance. We see Sheen portray an American Captain Willard, who starts out impatient for a mission, then leads down to a fall of morality. We follow alongside his decision making and moral questioning throughout Vietnam. He is phenomenal when acting with his eyes and looks alone.

Furthermore, Apocalypse Now features a brief, but brilliant later era role from Marlon Brando. Brando is anything but dull as he eats up the scenery with thoughtful moral justification for his atrocities. Brando plays Col. Kurtz with a zealous fervor apt for his character's insanity. His portrayal of a realistic cult leader in the midst of the Vietnam War is chilling as are his character Kurtz' last words. I will not spoil anything in the movie, so I just recommend you watch it for the chance to see Brando use every second of screen time to perfect, inspired acting.

In all, Francis Ford Coppola filmed an epic war drama and another masterpiece of cinema in his already hallowed filmography. Apocalypse Now will try to break your spirit and mind, but that is the journey Coppola asks you to embark upon with him. You will feel like you are in the middle of Vietnam at all times. It is a frightening prospect even in revisiting Apocalypse Now.