Fully Trained Killers

Rating: Null/10 (22 August 2010)

Kubrick's versatility is no unknown news. With 'Full Metal Jacket' he touches on a very sensitive subject: the insanity, brutality and sadism of war. He does not shy away from stating that soldiers are trained as killers, that their purpose is to kill. This is the sad disturbing truth that many people are in denial about. All this 'love for ones country', 'fight for ones country' motivation were secondary compared to the will to kill especially during the Vietnam war. It became a game, a competition of who could kill the most and who made the best kill.
'Full Metal Jacket' starts by showing us how the soldiers are trained to be killers and those who 'didn't have it in them' are humiliated and degraded. In a disturbing sequence the drill sergeant states the name of real-life murderers as examples of being great killers. Only the Joker character seems to have maintained some humanity as he opts for a journalist post and wears the peace badge (while his hat states 'born to kill').
In addition to its poignancy, 'Full Metal Jacket' is an exceptionally well crafted movie. The cinematography, sound effects and editing are first rate. The writing is excellent and the score goes well with the situations. Kubrick infuses some humour that works very well and doesn't overshadow the seriousness of the theme. The acting is very good. Matthew Modine and Vincent D'Onofrio are outstanding.
Very few war movies have made as strong an impression as Kubrick's picture. 'Full Metal Jacket' is among the ultimate anti-war films.