Apocalypse Now

My very piss poor attempt at film critique is that this movie is all about mirrors and parallels. The contrast between the debauchery the Americans partake in and the war going on in the background, the ceiling fan emitting sounds of helicopter rotors to reflect Willard’s state of mind about the war, the French lady taking about the two selves that Willard has, I feel like they very poignantly point out what this film has to say about the human experience. I feel like in a way Kurtz is also a parallel to Willard in a way. They both feel lost and like they have no real home to return to. Maybe that’s why, as Willard put it, he knows deep down that his end won’t be his defeat.  This is the oldest film I’ve watched thus far. Despite the quality of the practical effects, it didn’t fail to make an impression. I’m aware of this film and the director’s…reputation, but that’s why I think this film is considered his magnum opus. Both the viewer and the participant feel overwhelmed; this is the exact intended experience. All of that chaotic energy is effectively channeled into the message of the story.  I probably won’t watch this again, but I’m glad I did.