The hands never forget

Rating: 6/10 (7 September 2014)

Jarhead moved me on a personal level since it displays the life of a boy whom enlisted unaware of his future duties, of the wars being fought, and of the consequences it had on all those around them. From the wandering horse to innocent bystanders, everyone is affected (unfortunately for the worst, usually) and Jarhead shows the significant role each person plays despite the overwhelming circumstances.
From the branding to chants, tradition and solidarity is still alive, but what does it stand for? Whether it's people running away from problems, trying to find meaning, living out their dreams or just simply trying to pay bills, every Jarhead has a story that's unique to themselves. Even after their deployment finishes, life never quite returns to its original normalcy.
I particularly enjoyed the camera crew scenes and breakdown of daily routines since it details how average soldiers really are. No one is truly fighting with each others; only secular groups (instigated by those in higher power) and "appointed" officials that yield the masses. These people's attitudes are not intrinsic to the person, but rather the situation.
Although the plot wasn't phenomenal nor the peripheral cast great, the overall movie was solid. From beginning to end, we see how the innocent boy we start with is now forever a Jarhead.