Overlooked Vietnam War Epic, “The Damned of War,” Hailed by Tarantino as the “Best”
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A powerful, often-forgotten film about the Vietnam War, “The Damned of War” (1989), is gaining renewed attention thanks to praise from acclaimed director Quentin Tarantino, who has called it the “best film about the Vietnam War.” The film, starring a young Michael J. Fox alongside Sean Penn, John Leguizamo, and Ving Rhames, explores the moral compromises of war and has been described as a visceral and unforgettable experience.
The Vietnam War in Cinema: A Legacy of Masterpieces
The Vietnam War remains one of the most documented and analyzed conflicts in American history, and its impact on cinema is undeniable. Films like Francis Ford Coppola’s “Apocalypse Now” (1979), Stanley Kubrick’s “Full Metal Jacket” (1987), and Oliver Stone’s “Platoon” (1986) are widely considered masterpieces, consistently ranking among the greatest war films ever made. These films, all receiving five-star ratings from FILMSTARTS, offer distinct and harrowing perspectives on the conflict.
However, the depth of cinematic exploration of the Vietnam War extends beyond these well-known titles. Films like Michael Cimino’s “Who Goes Through Hell” (1978) also achieved critical acclaim, and a lesser-known gem, “The Damned of War,” deserves a place alongside them.
“The Damned of War”: A Story of Moral Courage
Released in 1989, the same year as “Back to the Future Part II” starring Michael J. Fox, “The Damned of War” centers on Private Eriksson, portrayed by Fox. Eriksson stands apart from his unit as the sole soldier who refuses to participate in the horrific act of kidnapping and raping a Vietnamese girl. The film doesn’t shy away from depicting the brutal realities of war and the moral dilemmas faced by soldiers.
Alongside Fox, the film boasts a strong ensemble cast including Sean Penn, John Leguizamo, John C. Reilly, and Ving Rhames. Despite receiving positive reviews upon its release, “The Damned of War” struggled at the box office and has since been overshadowed by its more famous contemporaries.
Tarantino’s Endorsement and De Palma’s Vision
Director Brian De Palma, known for thrillers like “Scarface” and “Dressed to Kill,” helmed “The Damned of War.” Despite its initial commercial failure, the film has garnered a dedicated following, particularly among cinephiles. A FILMSTARTS review described the film as a “punch in the stomach,” possessing “power that is second to none.”
Quentin Tarantino, a long-time admirer of De Palma’s work, has been particularly vocal about his appreciation for “The Damned of War.” In an interview with Collider, the “Pulp Fiction” director explicitly stated it was the “best film about the Vietnam War.” He even revealed that a scene involving Sean Penn assisting an injured comrade emotionally influenced his writing of “Reservoir Dogs.”
Furthermore, reports suggest that Steven Spielberg was also deeply moved – and shocked – by an early test screening of the film.
A Forgotten Classic Deserves Rediscovery
“The Damned of War” offers a stark and unflinching portrayal of the Vietnam War, focusing on the individual moral struggles within a larger context of brutality. Its enduring power, recognized by prominent filmmakers like Tarantino and Spielberg, suggests it’s a film that deserves to be revisited and appreciated by a wider audience. The film is currently available for purchase on Amazon*.
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