The Vietnam War in Film

August 21, 2012

During WWII and even the Korean War, Hollywood produced films that doubled as pure support-the-war propaganda. Not so for the Vietnam War, filmmakers took an increasingly dim and damning view of this overseas conflict that proved so fractious for so long. But even the most cynical films focused on the Vietnam War offer important stories, and even these present moments of heroism and valor.

A War with No Sides examines Vietnam War films throughout September 2012; all screenings take place at 6:30 p.m. 

Platoon (1986)
Wednesday, September 5th at North Independence Branch
Monday, September 24th at Smithville Branch
Thursday, September 27th at Platte City Branch
Director Oliver Stone examines the day-to-day existence of an infantry rifle platoon in Vietnam made up of 30 soldiers from all walks of life. When loyalties are divided by two warring sergeants, the resulting tragedy shakes the idealism of the youngest soldier. Starring Willem Dafoe and Tom Berenger (both earned Oscar nominations for Best Actor) as well as Charlie Sheen. Won Oscar for Best Picture. Warner Bros. – Rated R. (120 min.)

The Fog of War (2003)
Wednesday, September 12th at North Independence Branch
Monday, September 17th at Smithville Branch
Thursday, September 20th at Platte City Branch
Renowned documentarian Errol Morris interviews Robert McNamara about his experiences directing American strategy during the Vietnam War as Secretary of Defense during the Kennedy and Johnson administrations. Includes archival footage and an original score by Philip Glass. Won Oscar for Best Documentary. Sony Pictures Classics – Rated PG-13. (95 min.)

Full Metal Jacket (1987)
Monday, September 10th at Smithville Branch
Thursday, September 13th at Platte City Branch
Wednesday, September 19th at North Independence Branch
Director Stanley Kubrick chronicles the dehumanization and brutality of a Marine Corps squad – first observed during basic training camp in South Carolina and then fully realized amid the terrors and devastation of the once beautiful city of Hue in Vietnam. Starring Matthew Modine, Adam Baldwin, and Vincent D’Onofrio. Warner Bros. – Rated R. (116 min.)

We Were Soldiers (2002)
Thursday, September 6th at Platte City Branch
Wednesday, September 26th at North Independence Branch
Monday, October 1st at Smithville Branch
This recounting of true events during the Vietnam War is set in the Ia Drang Valley, site of the first major battle for American forces when 450 troopers from an elite American combat division were surrounded by 2,000 North Vietnamese soldiers. This story focuses on Lt. Colonel Hal Moore (Mel Gibson) and an Associated Press reporter as the Americans held their ground for an unbelievable month. Paramount Pictures – Rated R. (137 min.)

This film series is presented in advance of the annual Veterans Salute hosted by MCPL in cooperation with retired veterans from all American service branches. The Veterans Salute will be held Saturday, October 20, from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at the Smithville Branch, located at 120 Richardson St. in Smithville, MO. Call 816.532.0116 for more information. 

Paul Smith
Community Programming Manager