Symbolism of Russian Roulette

Rating: 8/10 (19 May 2016)

Film Studies Review Concept #1: The chance of the Russian Roulette game not only symbolizes the chance in becoming drafted for the military, but the eventual outcome of the game represents the negative outcome for those who are drafted. By using the game as a symbol the director portrays the reality of Vietnam for both the characters in the film, and anyone in the US military. Continuous participation in Russian Roulette eventually results in death. In comparison, those who are drafted for Vietnam eventually end up with extreme physical, emotional, or social damage. If someone was drafted and chose not to serve, they were sent to jail or fined and criticized for not serving their country. If they agreed to fight in Vietnam they could die, become severely injured, or emotionally scarred, and if they did make it home they were scrutinized for participating in a unjust war. Regardless of the choice made, the outcome is most definitely negative. I agree with this concept and believe that the director's use of the game as a symbol for the terrifying and uncertain negative effects of war is well thought out and wonderfully effective. By comparing this situation to Russian Roulette the director shows the American view of drafting for Vietnam, especially later in the war. Not being drafted is equal to the empty chamber; you are safe from harm but must watch as others around you face a detrimental situation, and being drafted is equal to the bullet-- certain death. This view has a great effect on American patriotism, and this can be seen in the film. The scene of the wedding early in the film with American flags decorating the room and the banner reading "serving god and country proudly," shows the support that the men feel for their country and their willingness to help any cause. By the end of the film this seems to have changed. After experiencing the violence of the war, being forced to play Russian Roulette in the prison (perhaps representing their forced participation in the war), returning to a country where they are unwelcome, and losing a best friend it is perceived that they don't know what to feel. In the final scene as the characters sing "God Bless America" at the wake they seem to still love their country in a certain way, maybe thankful for what is good about it and that they aren't living somewhere like Vietnam, but they are also sad and possibly disappointed at what a supposedly great country is doing to not only people from other countries but its very own loyal citizens. America's involvement in the Vietnam war left many devoted patriots at this time saddened and confused.