Colin Got His Gun

Rating: 7/10 (10 May 2009)

"Just released from the base stockade, recruit Roland Bozz (Colin Farrell) joins a platoon of young soldiers preparing to ship out to Vietnam. Bozz's independence and outright defiance draws fire from his own men as well as commanding officers. But when the platoon is sent to Tigerland, a hellish training ground that is the last stop before Vietnam, Bozz's leadership and loyalty brings his men together - triggering extraordinary consequences," according to the film's official synopsis.
Mr. Farrell won a "Best Actor" award from the Boston Film Critics; and, the film's characterizations are a strength. Clifton Collins Jr. (as Miter) should have been considered for a "Supporting Actor" award, but, really, everyone is good. The film's main problem is the shaky, hand-held camera, which is sometimes so bad it may make you dizzy. This is intentional, and a favorite way to make films more "realistic" (like a documentary). As for the story, the "Vietnam angst" doesn't get any better than watching Michael Vincent's face as he gets his haircut in "Tribes" (1970) - but "Tigerland" has more sex, swearing, and skivvies. The cast and crew should make it worth your while.
******* Tigerland (9/13/00) Joel Schumacher ~ Colin Farrell, Matthew Davis, Clifton Collins Jr.