Good movie, but Redux had a hard time keeping my interest

Rating: 9/10 (30 October 2003)

What is clearly one of the greatest war epics on film, and an adaptation of Joseph Conrad's book Heart of Darkness, Apocalypse Now Redux has a gripping story, very inspired acting, and deep characters. The only problem, if any, is the length. Redux, you see, is wonderful and fast-paced for the entire first hour, after which seems to drop off. I realize that the mood of the movie is intended to make this shift, as the story gets darker, but it doesn't seem as exciting. The movie begins with such promise of the satire and dark comedy of war films, and then becomes straight-faced drama. Still, this is a wonderful movie, with amazing acting and a compelling story, just don't expect it to be the same throughout.
If you've read Heart of Darkness, or are supposed to read it, don't expect this movie to follow it any further than general plot.
Apocalypse Now Redux gets an A for being an amazing movie, with many parts that stick in the viewer's mind.