Wake-up call for those of us who lived through the 60's

Rating: 9/10 (14 October 2007)

I wish this movie was required viewing for anyone who lived through the era of the Vietnam War--just to remind ourselves what a senseless war that was, and perhaps to ignite some more activism against our current senseless war. This is a superb movie--which starts of lightly, perhaps a bit silly--because all the characters are so two dimensional. But the total mass of all these characters gives the movie a greater depth. And the subjects it begins to tackle--the draft (and avoidance of draft), activism, USA's mission in Southeast Asia--without European support, drugs, sex, bisexuality, rock & roll,Detroit riots, police brutality, and more.
Three comments: First, the music is great!--and surprisingly not cliché in the choices and placement. Secondly, a good portion of the movie is visually fantastic. And lastly, great casting--one feels the loving chemistry between the characters. Bottom line--this movie starts like a chick flick and ends like The Deer Hunter.