The Vietnam War was a conflict that shaped a generation. It left an indelible mark on the history of the United States of America, too, and the tense period has been portrayed in numerous films over the years.
These cinematic depictions capture the complexities, the horrors, and the human stories that emerged from this turbulent period. Here are the top 10 movies depicting the Vietnam War.
10. Casualties Of War (1989)
Helmed by Brian De Palma, ‘Casualties of War‘ is based on the true story of American soldiers who commit a brutal crime against a Vietnamese woman during the Vietnam War. The movie explores the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by the soldiers involved. Through its powerful storytelling and gripping performances, the story delves into the dehumanizing effects of war and the psychological toll it takes on individuals. Consequently, the movie holds 84% on Rotten Tomatoes and 7.1/10 on IMDB.
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9. Good Morning, Vietnam (1987)
Directed by Barry Levinson, ‘Good Morning, Vietnam’ triumphs as a comedy-drama film set during the Vietnam War. The story follows Adrian Cronauer, a radio DJ who is assigned to the Armed Forces Radio Service. Cronauer’s unorthodox style quickly earns him popularity among the troops. Moreover, through his broadcasts, he adds humor and humanity to the lives of soldiers stationed in Vietnam, providing them a much-needed break from the harsh realities of war. The movie is also highly loved by war movie fanatics and holds 90% on Rotten Tomatoes with 7.3/10 on IMDB.
8. Born On The Fourth Of July (1989)
Oliver Stone’s ‘Born on the Fourth of July’ is based on the autobiography of Vietnam War veteran Ron Kovic, brilliantly and heartbreakingly played by Tom Cruise. Kovic was a young man whose patriotism led him to enlist in the Marines during the Vietnam War. However, after being paralyzed during combat and witnessing the mistreatment of veterans upon returning home, Kovic becomes disillusioned with the war and the government’s handling of it. In conclusion, the film chronicles Kovic’s journey from a passionate, idealistic young man to a vocal anti-war activist. The Independence Day favorite holds 84% on Rotten Tomatoes and 7.2/10 on IMDB.
7. Da 5 Bloods (2020)
‘Da 5 Bloods’ confronts issues of racism, both past and present, highlighting the burden borne by Black soldiers during the Vietnam War. Directed by Spike Lee, the story follows a group of aging Vietnam War veterans, who call themselves the ‘Bloods’. The film explores themes of brotherhood, trauma, and the lingering effects of war on individuals and society. Each member of the Bloods faces personal demons and unresolved issues stemming from their wartime experiences. The film is rated 6.5/10 on IMDB and 92% on Rotten Tomatoes.
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6. Rescue Dawn (2006)
‘Rescue Dawn’ explores themes of resilience, survival, and the human spirit’s capacity to endure in the face of adversity. Directed by Werner Herzog, it’s based on the true story of Dieter Dengler, portrayed by Christian Bale. Dieter was a U.S. Navy pilot who was shot down and captured during the Vietnam War. In the film, we see Dengler held as a prisoner of war in a Laotian camp, his harrowing ordeal as he struggles to survive in the jungle, facing starvation, torture, and the constant threat of betrayal by his captors. The film has great reviews and holds 90% on Rotten Tomatoes and 7.3/10 on IMDB.
5. The Deer Hunter (1978)
‘The Deer Hunter’ is directed by Michael Cimino and follows a group of working-class friends from Pennsylvania before, during, and after their service in the Vietnam War. The film explores the profound impact of the Vietnam War on the lives of its characters. The haunting imagery, emotional depth and Robert De Niro’s unforgettable performance has solidified this movie’s status as a classic exploration of the Vietnam War and its aftermath. As a result of its immaculate cinematography and production, it holds 86% on Rotten Tomatoes and 8.1/10 on IMDB.
4. Full Metal Jacket (1987)
With 90% on Rotten Tomatoes and 8.3/10 on IMDB ‘Full Metal Jacket‘ is a beloved war film directed by Stanley Kubrick. It is based on the novel ‘The Short-Timers’ by Gustav Hasford. The movie is set during the Vietnam War and is divided into two parts: the first follows a group of Marine recruits through basic training at Parris Island, and the second focuses on their experiences in Vietnam. The film explores themes of dehumanization, the psychological effects of warfare, and the duality of human nature. All in all, the film remains one of Kubrick’s most iconic works and is regarded as a seminal film in the war genre.
3. Hamburger Hill (1987)
Through its realistic portrayal of the Battle of Hamburger Hill, ‘Hamburger Hill‘ offers viewers a glimpse into the courage, resilience, and sacrifice of the soldiers who fought in one of the most brutal engagements of the War. Directed by John Irvin, it’s based on a true story which makes it all even more daunting. While the movie is not as highly rated on IMDB and holds a 6.7/10 rating, the 100% on Rotten Tomatoes does it justice. The film follows the experiences of a diverse group of soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division as they fight to capture Hill 937. It showcases the intense combat and grueling conditions faced by the soldiers during the 10-day battle.
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2. Apocalypse Now (1979)
‘Apocalypse Now’ explores themes of power, morality, and the darkness inherent in human nature. The epic war film directed by Francis Ford Coppola is loosely based on Joseph Conrad’s novella ‘Heart of Darkness.’ It is set during the Vietnam War and follows Captain Benjamin L. Willard as he is tasked with assassinating Colonel Walter E. Kurtz. The film is renowned for its surreal and hallucinatory style, which captures the madness and absurdity of war. With its iconic imagery, memorable performances, and philosophical undertones, it’s not surprising that the film holds a whopping 97% on Rotten Tomatoes and 8.4/10 on IMDB.
1. Platoon (1986)
‘Platoon’ is renowned for its authenticity and its portrayal of the horrors of war, including scenes of intense combat and the mistreatment of civilians. For the film, director Oliver Stone drew upon his own experiences as a soldier in the Vietnam War. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Director, and has since become a classic of the war film genre. With all the awards, ‘Platoon‘ also holds impressive ratings with 89% on Rotten Tomatoes and 8.1/10 on IMDB.
