In the world of cinematic commentary, the last year has seen a rise in YouTube videos where professionals offer their insights on historical epics, war movies, and even the use of snakes in big blockbusters. Casualties of War, Brian De Palma's Vietnam War epic starring Michael J. Fox and Sean Penn, has recently come under scrutiny by a military history expert.
Released in the late 1980s, Casualties of War aimed to delve into the realities and moral dilemmas faced by soldiers during the Vietnam War. Despite receiving positive reviews from critics and audiences, the film was a box office disappointment. The movie's exploration of the harrowing true story of a Vietnamese woman's rape and murder by American soldiers aligned with De Palma's penchant for darker themes.
Professor Bill Allison critiqued the film's accuracy in a video for Insider, giving it a mere 4 out of 10 for its depiction of bridge guarding. Allison highlighted the challenges filmmakers face in balancing historical accuracy with creative license, pointing out discrepancies in the portrayal of certain military tactics and events.
While Casualties of War may have fallen short in terms of historical accuracy, Michael J. Fox's performance in a serious role garnered praise from both critics and viewers. Known for his comedic roles, Fox's portrayal in the film showcased his versatility as an actor.
Despite the film's shortcomings, Casualties of War remains available for viewing on DirectTV and various video-on-demand services, offering audiences the opportunity to experience this thought-provoking take on the Vietnam War era.
