A thrilling journey through sacrifice and fear. Platoon portrays the Vietnam War through the personalities and individuals who served. A film that focuses on people far more than conflict.
A platoon of American soldiers patrols, fights and dies in the jungles of Vietnam, dealing with the horrors of bloodthirsty warfare and the immorality of their political masters.
Willem Dafoe and Charlie Sheen are at the forefront of the 1986 picture that scooped four Academy Awards wins in 1987 - two of which for Best Picture and Director. However, it is the blend of the different individuals that creates the film's poignancy. The traverse through time is turbulent; we experience the dark depths of the jungle war zone, its silence contrasts to the soldiers' vibrant base, we gather the sense of togetherness and cohesion among the group, though, ultimately this is not the case.
The conflict between serving officers is greater than that of the war between nations. Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes clashes with squad leader Sergeant Elias (Dafoe) and later with protagonist Chris. There is also notable disagreement over the treatment issued out by the US.
Director Oliver Stone encapsulates the horrific scenes of the war, the heartbreak, anguish and utter suffering of those involved. The camerawork in creating suspense and anticipating threat is sensational, enticing its audience throughout. The beauty of the spectacle is that we get to understand each individual's story, and begin to sympathise with certain troops and loathe against others.
Set in The Philippines with a $6 million budget (amassing over $138 in the Box Office), Platoon, 36-years later, continues to be regarded as one of the greatest war pictures created. The captured essence of the war reflected on-screen is eerie and authentic. Flawless acting performances bode well to give the film such acclaim.
A magnificent watch.
A platoon of American soldiers patrols, fights and dies in the jungles of Vietnam, dealing with the horrors of bloodthirsty warfare and the immorality of their political masters.
Willem Dafoe and Charlie Sheen are at the forefront of the 1986 picture that scooped four Academy Awards wins in 1987 - two of which for Best Picture and Director. However, it is the blend of the different individuals that creates the film's poignancy. The traverse through time is turbulent; we experience the dark depths of the jungle war zone, its silence contrasts to the soldiers' vibrant base, we gather the sense of togetherness and cohesion among the group, though, ultimately this is not the case.
The conflict between serving officers is greater than that of the war between nations. Staff Sergeant Robert Barnes clashes with squad leader Sergeant Elias (Dafoe) and later with protagonist Chris. There is also notable disagreement over the treatment issued out by the US.
Director Oliver Stone encapsulates the horrific scenes of the war, the heartbreak, anguish and utter suffering of those involved. The camerawork in creating suspense and anticipating threat is sensational, enticing its audience throughout. The beauty of the spectacle is that we get to understand each individual's story, and begin to sympathise with certain troops and loathe against others.
Set in The Philippines with a $6 million budget (amassing over $138 in the Box Office), Platoon, 36-years later, continues to be regarded as one of the greatest war pictures created. The captured essence of the war reflected on-screen is eerie and authentic. Flawless acting performances bode well to give the film such acclaim.
A magnificent watch.