Underrated

Rating: 8/10 (18 May 2004)

An extremely powerful, and sensational epic, with a very emotional story, 'The Deer Hunter' was nominated for no less than 5 Oscars in 1978, including best actor, best director and best sound.
The film begins by focusing on the daily lives of the main characters, most of which are very close friends, working in Pennsylvania as steelworkers. As the story unfolds, we see the film isn't about 'deer hunting' at all, but about the tragic consequences of the Vietnam War. Three of the main characters, Michael, Steven and Nick become captured by the Vietcong, and are forced to play Russian roulette, where bets are made on their survival. Eventually, most manage to make a close and gripping escape, but are suffering from terrible, emotional and physical stress. Michael later returns to Saigon to fulfill an old vow to one of his friends who was forced to stay behind, making a horrific discovery. It's a situation where Michael will either return home with his friend, or return home alone!
The film, although extremely harrowing, will stay with you long after the film has finished, and is a genuine achievement in film making history!!
Well done to the director!!!