the black comedy of realism

Rating: 8/10 (10 October 2005)

Even if some people don't see a plot line in this story the plot is simply: two Doctors (Trapper John and Hawkeye) try not to get mad in this war, seeing all these soldiers, women & children being wounded or even die, by annoying someone or playing pranks (mostly Majors Burns & O'Houlihan). It shows in a great way how the characters try to stay alive in a war zone while also trying to stay sane (more or less). The TV-show based on the film is certainly much more fun and many people like it better but unfortunately they aren't often shown anymore and aired twice as long than the war lasted. So if one liked the movie they will certainly like the show.
The character "Trapper John" later got his own show called "M.D. Trapper John" (1979-86) playing 28 years after his discharging, he is now the very thing that he was against during the war: Chief of Surgery at the San Franscico Memorial Hospital. His character has changed over the years but you can still see, that he is the same rebellious person.