Full Metal Jacket

The first act of the film is done so well, it remained practically stuck in the back of mind for the rest of its runtime. It’s no more humane than the second half, and a necessary component that properly sets the subsequent tone. What entirely lays the groundwork for this film is Kubrick’s dedication to visual realism. Chosen variety of tracking shots, grandiose set design, and practical effects all integrates the viewer in a captivating and unforgettable war-torn country. Full Metal Jacket itself represents the mentality of the involved US soldiers in Vietnam, that despite their best attempts to make sense and justify such a controversial and atrocious conflict, the losses got the better of them in one way or another. An absolutely brutal period of human history, but a worthy depiction of fragility and loss, most of all.