A Wonderfully Intriguing Look At Vietnam

Rating: 9/10 (11 July 2008)

I have long loved Kubrick's works, whether it's the post-apocalyptic Dr. Strangelove or the wondrously bewildering A Clockwork Orange, and I have always liked war films. What better than Full Metal Jacket than for me? Answer: nothing. Full Metal Jacket follows the journey of Private Joker and other fellow soldiers as they survive PT (physical training) and then the big one: 'Nam itself. Every character is unique and has been masterfully crafted emotionally by Kubrick. None of the characters ever felt emotionally detached or cliché', with the exception of Animal Mother, who was your typical tough-as-nails soldier who carries around a machine gun meant to be used as an emplaced turret, but even he feels like he's simply trying to act tough in front of his fellow soldiers. The story is very good as well, and doesn't feel like a cliché' 'Nam movie, as it constantly throws tiny surprises and plot twists that mix it up and keep it from feeling old and tired. So, despite loving every aspect of the movie, you must be scratching your head wondering, "Why didn't he give it a 10 if he loved every aspect than?" Here's why: why the film is artistically a masterpiece and deserves to be watched by anybody and everybody, it doesn't bring anything truly new or revolutionary to the table. So, if your looking for a war movie, this should DEFINITELY be your next pick. I would also recommend picking this movie up along with Across the Universe, so you get a great point of view of both sides of the war, civilian and military. Oh, and while Across the Universe would be alright for any teen to watch, I wouldn't recommend letting the kiddies see Full Metal Jacket, as it has gratuitous language and sexual references. Why are you still reading this? Go watch FMJ!!!!!