Russian Roulette with Predictable Outcome

Rating: 7/10 (5 September 2001)

The film starts with the often used slice-of-life episode which introduces us to the characters. For my taste this part was about 20 minutes too long. Once arrived in Vietnam we learn how Russian Roulette is played. There wasn't much tension for me, though, because I always knew the outcome. DeNiro must go on with his show so he won't die. He's the usual ultracool guy who doesn't mind about life or death which unfortunately hurts the quality of the film. He travels to Saigon to get Nick out of the hell in the last minute possible. And then again he plays Russian Roulette where either he or Nick will certainly die. Will Nick be able to find his way home alone? Hardly. So it's better when HE dies. The Vietnamese are stereotype bad guys and lack any individuality. Overall I was disappointed after 3 hours. Good cast and technically well made.
7 /10.