A deeply touching movie.

Rating: 10/10 (12 March 2006)

Not sure I know what a spoiler is, but you could read the script of this movie and still enjoy watching its great collection of actors.
Beyond the story actually being told, this movie provides the viewer with some insight to the military mind and persona. Including real Marines on the cast wasn't truly necessary, but provided an additional level of realism. The marital and drinking problems common among servicemen (especially "lifers") are richly shown in this highly realistic drama. The movie locations will be recognized by many Servicemen, ex-Servicemen and their dependents. Likewise, the action will be all too familiar.
Clint Eastwood portrays a hardened, grizzled old-time Marine who transfers into a training battalion, only to be confronted by an old-time rival and a commander who will top your list of people to despise, especially if you were ever in the service.
Besides being sad, funny, and entertaining this movie is quite true-to-life. Watch it once to enjoy a really good movie. Watch it a second time for the education it can provide.
Oh, in validation: I wasn't a Marine. But I was an FMF attached Corpsman.