Platoon: A Hilariously Grim Look at the ‘Heroic’ Vietnam War
Picture this: a young, idealistic college student, Chris Taylor (played by the ever-charismatic Charlie Sheen), decides that instead of finishing his studies and, you know, becoming a functioning member of society, he’d rather trade in his textbooks for a rifle and head off to the jungles of Vietnam. Because nothing screams “patriotism” quite like signing up for a war that’s known for its questionable morals and even more questionable hairstyles.
Once in the throes of battle, Chris quickly discovers that the reality of war is less about “heroic deeds” and more about dodging bullets, questionable leadership, and the occasional existential crisis. He’s thrust into a world where the supposed heroes—Sgt. Elias (Willem Dafoe) and Sgt. Barnes (Tom Berenger)—are locked in a battle of their own, which is less about the enemy and more about who can get the most creative with a moral compass. Spoiler alert: it’s broken.
Now, let’s talk about our two sergeants. Elias is the kind of officer who believes in the power of love, peace, and probably a good herbal remedy to ease the pain of war. He’s the ‘cool’ sergeant who tries to keep the boys grounded while also indulging in a bit of the green stuff. Meanwhile, Barnes is the grizzled, hard-nosed veteran who has seen too much and is convinced that the best way to survive is to embrace your inner monster. Together, they make for a delightful odd couple, if your idea of delightful includes moral ambiguity and a lot of existential dread.
As Chris navigates this minefield (both literally and metaphorically), he finds himself caught between the two sergeants, who seem to represent the two sides of a very chaotic coin. On one side, you have Elias, who’s all about humanity and compassion, and on the other, there’s Barnes, who believes that the only way to survive is to become a heartless machine. Spoiler: it’s a real toss-up as to which side Chris should choose, and honestly, he’d probably be better off flipping a coin.
Of course, what’s a war movie without a bit of drug use? In a brilliant twist of irony, the soldiers turn to marijuana and heroin as their escape from the hellscape that is Vietnam. Because when you’re knee-deep in the horrors of war, what better way to cope than to get high and forget about the fact that you’re, you know, in a war? It’s almost as if the filmmakers are saying, “Hey, if you can’t change your circumstances, at least change your state of mind!”
As the plot unfolds, Chris becomes increasingly disillusioned with the war and the men around him. The film culminates in a series of tragic events that make you question everything you thought you knew about heroism, loyalty, and the very nature of humanity. And just when you think Chris has found his footing, the war takes a turn that leads to a gut-wrenching climax. Spoiler alert: it’s not a happy ending. Who would’ve thought?!
In the end, “Platoon” is less a straightforward war film and more a darkly comedic satire on the absurdity of war. It’s a brutal, raw portrayal that leaves you wondering if anyone really wins in the end. So if you’re in the mood for a film that’s both a gut punch and a chuckle (albeit a very dark one), “Platoon” is your jam. Just remember to bring your sense of humor, because it’s going to need it!