Erinnpayne

Rating: 10/10 (4 May 2013)

I loved this movie. Some of the most believable acting I've ever seen. It's a sad movie with an insight into war that is not often offered to viewers of war/epic movies. The cast is excellent with legends such as Mel Gibson. This very heart wrenching and emotional movie has a slight comical element provided by Sam Elliot. I, being a fan of epic and war movies, had huge expectations for this movie and they were exceeded. Being based on the true story of when a group of around 400 American soldiers go into battle against almost 4000 Vietnamese soldiers in the valley of death in 1965, it truly shows viewers what war is really like, something many of us will never have to experience. It's non stop action with amazing effects but there is always the overwhelming sadness and awareness of the circumstances. We never forget about the wives back home or the children who will now grow up without fathers and this awareness is just emphasized by the fact that part of the movie is of the families receiving news of death and their reactions, often making viewers cry themselves. The viewers are in fact, so involved that the loss of a character feels like a loss to the viewer. Every single character is developed, even the Vietnamese. There are no heroes in this movie, although shown from American perspective the viewer is made aware of the fact that the Vietnamese may not be there by choice and also have families back home that will go on living without a husband or father. I was impressed by the fact that the film was made with the input and advice of the real Lt. Col. Hal Moore and widows of the deceased soldiers, making it just that little bit more real. With an overwhelmingly emotional yet exciting story and a bittersweet ending what more can you ask for? I, myself, did not cry as the only movie I've ever cried in is Braveheart(I'm not very emotional) but my entire family and friends were sobbing throughout. This movie is one of the most unforgettable movies I have ever seen and has left a lasting effect and impression on me. This movie just shows that with a duo like the incredible Mel Gibson and the amazing Randall Wallace, there are no mistakes. 10/10 I highly recommend it to anyone.