Apocalypse Now is a film that is often misunderstood. War vets with whom I've discussed this film say that it is unrealistic. Historians will claim that it is an inaccurate depiction of the Vietnam War. They are correct in both cases. Inspired by the Joseph Conrad novel Heart of Darkness, the film is actually a surrealistic metaphor about the nature of evil and the corruption of the human spirit. Apocalypse Now is a dream film that I liken in many ways to The Wizard of Oz. In both films the main characters are on a journey to reconnect to their inner selves. They meet unusual characters along the way and have strange adventures.
If you don't like movies that depict war and violence then you might be put off by this film. Keep in mind though that this film is essentially a dream, a nightmare. There are memorable scenes in the film that will stay with you long after you've seen this film. For greater insight about the making of Apocalypse Now you might also enjoy watching the documentary Hearts of Darkness which describes the ordeals that the cast and crew went through.
Have you seen Apocalypse Now? Do you see it as being more of a fantasy than a realistic war film? Are you familiar with Conrad's Heart of Darkness?
Have you seen Apocalypse Now? Do you see it as being more of a fantasy than a realistic war film? Are you familiar with Conrad's Heart of Darkness?
