ONE SHOT...

Rating: Null/10 (24 October 2002)

THE DEER HUNTER is the most powerful movies I have ever viewed. It is heartbreaking, emotional, and intense. Sound a bit overboard?? Well, it's the truth. Featuring wonderful performances by all, concentrated direction, a well-written script, awesome editing and cinematogrpahy, the film leaves you with a lump in your throat and a tear in your eye. The film basically shows us the lives of a small town group of friends, everyday America in a sense. A certain few (De Niro, Savage, and Walken) must leave to defend our nation. They do, face the horror of war, and are forever changed by their experience. De Niro cannot adapt back to his old life after going through what he did. Savage is handicapped and emotionally shattered. Walken is frightened to return home and face change, so he reverts to going AWOL upon the conclusion of the war and living a life as a Russian Roulette player in Saigon. Meryl Streep is totally convinving as the love of Walken's life (and eventually De Niro's). John Cazale is strongly effecting as drunken, immature Stan. Chuck Aspegren (in his only acting role ever) and George Dzundza are also strong (especially Dzundza in the final scene). Totally deserving of the Best Picture Oscar (and Walken's BSA Ocar), THE DEER HUNTER is a film that touches your heart and soul and makes you realize the meaning of friendship and the challenges of accepting change. A winner.