Review of Platoon (1986) by Sean D — 24 Jan 2016
Superb.
1967. A fresh-out-of-training recruit, Chris (played by Charlie Sheen), arrives in Vietnam and within days is out on patrol in the jungle. His platoon sergeant, Staff Sergeant Barnes (Tom Berenger), is tough-as-nails and a hard taskmaster. His squad leader, Sergeant Elias (Willem Dafoe), cares for his men and tries to help Chris learn and survive. Unfortunately, an incident occurs which sets Barnes against Elias and causes a large amount of friction within the platoon. This, and they still have to fight the Viet Cong...
One of the greatest war movies ever made. Certainly in my top 3 Vietnam war movies (the other two being Apocalypse Now and Full Metal Jacket). Incredibly gritty and realistic, with a great sense of what those that fought in Vietnam it went though. A good examination of the morality of war and how war changes people, especially in the heat of battle.
Deservedly won the Best Picture Oscar in 1987 with Oliver Stone picking up Best Director. Willem Dafoe and Tom Berenger got Best Supporting Actor nominations.
This review of Platoon (1986) was written by Sean D on 24 Jan 2016.
Platoon has generally received very positive reviews.
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