American flag turns it into a joke

Rating: 6/10 (3 July 1999)

Every possible thing has been said about this film, but lets accumulate the dissent some more. No doubt the first bit is pretty realistic and moving and deserves acclaim, but after that the plot gets lame and the acting even worse. And what's this nonsense with the American flag? Oh well, if they want horror, cruelty, and moral vacuum symbolised by the Stars and Stripes that's fine by me. But it turned what was potentially a worthwhile film into a bit of a farce, although empty headed middle America will appreciate it. I was never sure about Tom Hanks but now its clear that he's only good at sitting round with his head in a spin. Save the first half hour for excellent "documentry" footage to teach the ones in power about the cruel nature of war. Save the rest of it for serialisation on daytime TV.