Terrifying. Tormenting. Beautiful. Truly magnificent.

Rating: 10/10 (22 April 2019)

I was born in the XXI century and do, naturally, have a clip thinking that does not welcome long preludes for something.That's why I started my exploration of Francis Ford Coppola's art works by this very film, considered by many to be the highest peak of his mastery, moreover, I managed to watch its extended version because of the 40-year jubilee. Well, as I was looking at the final titles, I could not more see the life the way I used to. I felt as if my head had been hit with something massive. Genuinely did I have some kind of a hangover: a terrible headache, a slight feeling of being sick and - the pain whenever I tried to think about the film, it's meaning and message.
However, the pain leaves, but your thoughts stay. What was the film about? The essence of war? The new perception of the one that was in Vietnam? Maybe about the concept of the Übermensch in the named realities? I can not know. All I know is that it scared me to death and made me wonder, reflect and sink in questions.
I will not speak of the excellent acting or soundtrack, which are nevertheless notable. Without any doubt, there were enough people to talk about this. But I can't not point out the operator work. I dare to suppose that it is these long scenes, that some of the reviewers called unnecessary, that actually make the film so utterly beautiful as long as cruel and horrifying. The film has its own poetry. Combined with a controversial topic and a meaningful storyline, you get a masterpiece. In my opinion, watching "Apocalypse Now" is like a marathon: after you have just finished it you can't believe you've done that, you think you are going to die and will not ever be able to do that again. But as the time goes by, you're starting to see the charm and the hidden depths. And you do.
I strongly advise you not to watch the movie alone and at home, with children or family. It will not reward you if you're looking for something light and fun. It will not give you a clue to itself. But as long as you are ready to strain your thoughts and feelings and get lost - you are welcome.