Today, more relevant than ever...

Rating: 10/10 (24 October 2006)

This is an excellent film which people who do not even like war films will appreciate. It is an epic commentary on the Vietnam era, the motivations of the young men who enlisted, and the true story of Ron Kovic.
It is NOT a comforting story of American history, the treatment of Vietnam veterans, or fairness. It is, at times, disturbing and upsetting. It is real.
Tom Cruise is at the pinnacle of his acting performance as a young high school graduate who wants to make his parents proud. His father was also in the war, and he feels obligated. ..."Don't we have to stop Communism, Dad?"...; his father looks at him, not answering.
There are many cameos by now famous actors, Steven Baldwin, John C. McGinley, Kyra Sedgwick, Lili Taylor.
When he is injured, he spends time in a VA hospital and there are some truly disturbing scenes, such as when he unable to get out of bed (he is paralyzed), and degraded by hospital staff.
Based on the true story by Kovic, the book is a must read. This film is visionary and disturbing, in that it shows the effect on humanity of war, how peoples lives are changed, and the aftermath. A must see. 10/10.
.