Russian Roulette

Rating: Null/10 (11 December 2012)

(IN RESPONSE TO DISCUSSION QUESTION #1)
The Deer Hunter contains in a few of its scenes, the game of Russian roulette. Of which can be interpreted as a metaphor/symbolism for the men who were in the Vietnam War. The United States government, frankly, is the soldier (NVA/Vietcong) forcing the American POW to hold the gun to his head (Mike, Nick, and Steven). If they don't, they face the punishment that includes prison time and/or a fine (in the film, Steven refuses and is thrown in a pit). If they were to obey their orders of conscription and enter the war; they face two distinct possibilities. They could be simply killed in action (firing the bullet in the chamber) like Nick. If they manage to make it through alive, they still will be significantly changed in character as a human-being (Mike) or physically maimed/injured (Steven) while also facing the shame reciprocated on to them by the public who was largely against the war for its purposes (something much different than the past ideals of patriotism, valor, and honor of soldiers who fought in wars of past). Ultimately, the director is trying to convey the disturbing consequences/ensuing realities of the Vietnam War; of which no one won and affected everyone involved in some way, shape, or form. Unfortunately, I don't think the inclusion of Russian roulette, a game that has not been documented to be played in the War, was a good idea. This factual discrepancy has the potential to alter viewers' mindsets on the war itself. While it remains a great metaphor, it is placed in a film that will be seen for many years to come as a examination on Vietnam war veterans where a huge nonfactual metaphor will be the most memorable aspect of the film to most viewers.