Full Metal Jacket (1987)

*SPOILER FREE

"This is my rifle. There are many others like it, but this one is mine. My rifle is my best friend. It is my life. I must master it as I must master my life. Without me, my rifle is useless. Without my rifle, I am useless. I must fire my rifle true. I must shoot straighter than my enemy, who is trying to kill me. I must shoot him before he shoots me. I will. Before God I swear this creed: my rifle and myself are defenders of my country, we are the masters of our enemy, we are the saviors of my life. So be it, until there is no enemy, but peace. Amen."

What is the cost of war? This is Stanley Kubrick's masterpiece about war and the duality of man.

Full Metal Jacket is an anti-war drama following - in the first half - two U.S. marine privates, nicknamed Joker and Pyle, through their boot camp training under the command of an abusive, sadistic sergeant. And following them - in the second half - as they embark on the Vietnam War.

The Stanley Kubrick picture depicts the insanity and the psychological horror of warfare, not only on the innocent civilians and peaceful lives but also on those who demonstrate, perform, and execute its most despicable acts.

The ingenious cinematography, the narrative storytelling, and the exhilarating long tracking shots. The uncomfort that looks you in the eye, captures your attention and says... keep looking. This is a masterful filmmaking by the master of cinema.

Though Full Metal Jacket was one of the toughest movie experiences I had to sit through because of the obscenity and immorality it depicts. It was immensely enriching and illuminating nonetheless. This is one of the most committed, realistic, and bold portrayals of one of the most darkest and terrifying sides of our humanity, war

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In the next paragraph I am going to give away some important plot points and quote the last line in the film which might be a major spoiler. If you haven't watched Full Metal Jacket and wish to experience it wholeheartedly please stop reading here.

*SPOILER ALERT

M.I.C.K.E.Y M.O.U.S.E.

After being dehumanized and stripped of their personalities, dignity and morality, the young men have transformed into psychopathic killing machines, heartlessly programmed to kill.

The marine corps are marching and singing a song about a children's cartoon, all their innocence and whatever goodness inside of their hearts is now lost.

Pvt. Joker had transformed from a cynical comedian into a minster of death. And now had lost his last bit humanity after shooting the sniper young girl... "My thoughts drift back to erect nipple wet dreams about Mary Jane Rottencrotch and the Great Homecoming Fuck Fantasy. I am so happy that I am alive, in one piece and short. I'm in a world of shit... yes. But I am alive. And I am not afraid."

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Available to watch on HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video

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