A classic of seventies cinema

Rating: 8/10 (7 August 2011)

Michael Cimino's "The Deer Hunter" took home the coveted Best Picture Oscar for 1978. However, Cimino's time in the sun was short-lived since the "Heaven's Gate" debacle of a couple of years later irrevocably damaged his career. Nevertheless, this film shows Cimino to be an accomplished craftsman.
The story concerns a group of working class males in small-town America just prior to shipping off to Vietnam for a tour of duty. The movie opens on the eve of the wedding of one of the three, immediately after which they go off for one last deer hunt. From there, the movie follows them to their destination and back again, focusing on the effect that the war has on each of their lives and the lives of their loved ones back home.
The movie sports an enviable cast. They don't get much better than Robert De Niro & Meryl Streep, both of whom garnered Oscar nominations for their performances here. Then there's the inimitable Christopher Walken in his Oscar-winning role. Also in support, John Cazale & John Savage both contribute standout performances.
Michael Cimino's direction & Vilmos Zsigmond's cinematography combine to produce an exceedingly attractive film. Cimino was rewarded with an Oscar for his efforts while Zsigmond had to content himself with just a nomination (he'd won the previous year anyway). On the other hand, I found the score to be a bit of a mixed bag. The theme (performed by classical guitarist John Williams, not to be confused with composer John Williams) is memorable but the majority of Stanley Myers' music is undistinguished and pales next to the visuals.
All in all, the movie shows plenty of technical polish in addition to several fine performances. That being said, there are some who take issue with the film's politics and also the artistic license with regard to the Russian roulette scenes. Personally, I don't see the film as being particularly one-sided and I appreciate the Russian roulette angle as a metaphor rather than a reflection of actual events. But, by all means, check out this thought-provoking picture for yourself and form your own opinions.