The Russian Roulette scene

Rating: 6/10 (10 May 2010)

the Russian Roulete scene is a pivotal point in the film. The scene depicts the men changing and adapting to better their chances at surviving Vietnam. Using this particular means of torture, created a picture of how intense and violent the Vietnam War really was. The director wanted to capture this along with showing th ways in which the characters have changed. It was Mike's quick thinking that got the unlucky trio out of the POW camp. His by the book attitude, needed to quickly change if he was to survive his capture. His choice to try and fight his captures was unorthodox, as P.O.W's usually try to wait for help to arrive. Nick who is usually laid back and easy going must assist Mike in his attempts to kill his captures. Nick realizes that the only way to survive is to control your own destiny, and not to wait for the help of others to bail you out. Steve is the one member of the trio that doesn't quite adapt to the Vietnam lifestyle. It is only by Mike's will, that Steve survives his Russian Roulete game. Mike urges him on throughout the ordeal. When Steve finally does pull the trigger, he nearly ends his own life. After this scene it is Mike who carries Steve out of the jungle and to safety.