Review of Apocalypse Now (1979) by Theodore S — 11 Jan 2014

A fine adaptation of Conrad's Heart of Darkness, set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War. The journey upriver and individual vignettes are, of course, metaphoric of the descent into insanity with little hope for redemption.

Many great scenes, classic lines, and unforgettable characterizations, with each character representing a different viewpoint. Impressive cast includes Frederic Forrest as Chef, Albert Hall as Chief, a young Lawrence Fishburne as Clean, Dennis Hopper as the photojournalist, Harrison Ford as a rather nervous Colonel and Martin Sheen as Black-ops Capt.

Willard, with director Francis Ford Coppola using tried-and-true actors from his Godfather movies GD Spradlin, Robert Duvall and screen legend Marlon Brando, as well as some surprise cameos from yet-to-be stars Colleen Camp, Scott Glenn, and even R Lee Ermy as a helicopter pilot.

I personally prefer the original to the Redux, but the story does not get lost in the additional footage. Great film.