gripping and powerful character study that analyzes the nature of man and war

Rating: Null/10 (5 November 2002)

Intense, authentic war saga seen from the perspective of a naïve young American soldier who struggles to maintain his morality, innocence, and sanity as he gets an in-depth look at the brutality of war during a tour of duty in Vietnam. He also gets an up close and personal look at the dark and depraved duality of man as he interacts with his equally strong, equally opposed sergeants. The story wanders at times, and occasionally goes overboard on melodrama, but it draws you in with its powerful, realistic battle scenes, rock solid performances, and relentless examination of the bitterness and hostility developed by combatants in wartime. Insightful, well-crafted, and unforgettable. ***½