Top-Rated Vietnam War Films: A Definitive Ranking

Exploring the Impact: Vietnam War Films Unveiling the Harsh Realities and Unforgettable Stories

The Vietnam War stands as a haunting chapter in history, leaving a trail of devastation, casualties, addiction, and lasting trauma among an entire generation of young men. Through the compelling medium of cinema, audiences have been granted a glimpse into the historical events and the profound experiences endured by those who witnessed the war firsthand.

Vietnam War movies have carved a niche for themselves, showcasing gripping narratives filled with intensity, violence, and the descent into madness. Renowned filmmakers and acclaimed actors have fearlessly contributed to these extraordinary films, with visionaries such as Oliver Stone and Stanley Kubrick masterfully bringing the horrifying conflict to life.

Updated as of May 3, 2023: The list has been expanded to encompass a wider range of exceptional films, including an honorable mention.

Unlike World War II movies that often exalt bravery and emphasize “American exceptionalism,” Vietnam War films tend to adopt a critical lens, offering profound reflections on the war’s true nature. Below, we present a selection of the finest films that poignantly capture the horrors and brutality of the Vietnam War.

 1.  Forrest Gump (Honorable Mention)

Forrest Gump, directed by Robert Zemeckis, is widely regarded as one of the most acclaimed Hollywood films of the 1990s and beyond. However, it may not receive explicit recognition in this particular category. While the movie covers a range of significant historical events in the 20th century, extending beyond the Vietnam War, its portrayal of the war itself deserves high praise.

Some argue that Forrest Gump relies too heavily on comedy, hindering its ability to deeply explore the themes of the Vietnam War. Nevertheless, the simplicity of Forrest, the protagonist, offers a poignant contrast to the destructive nature of the conflict. The apparent straightforwardness of Forrest and Bubba’s time in Vietnam intensifies the impact of the inevitable ambush and Bubba’s tragic death. Additionally, the narrative surrounding Gary Sinise’s Lieutenant Dan and his struggles with PTSD stands out as a major highlight of the film. Although Forrest Gump is not solely focused on the Vietnam War, its presence and aftermath profoundly shape this beloved American classic.

 2.  Da 5 Bloods

While offering a fresh perspective, Spike Lee’s Da 5 Bloods remains fundamentally focused on the Vietnam War. The film skillfully delves into the challenges faced by Black Americans during the mid-20th century, set against the backdrop of a conflict with an unknown adversary that affected the entire nation.

Delroy Lindo’s remarkable performance captures the enduring impact of the war, depicting the internal struggles and absence of peace faced by him and his comrades on the battlefield. The exploration of PTSD is masterfully presented through Lindo’s character, Paul, as well as other individuals who experienced the hardships of the war firsthand. Despite being predominantly set in contemporary times, Da 5 Bloods convincingly demonstrates that the inner battles caused by the Vietnam War continue to resonate.

Spike Lee deserves significant recognition for his insightful examination and homage to the Black soldiers who navigated the turmoil of that era in various ways. While other highly acclaimed films on this list may portray the immense horrors and turmoil inflicted by this conflict, Da 5 Bloods should be celebrated for providing a distinct perspective and analysis of the Vietnam War.

 3.  We Were Soldiers

We Were Soldiers, released in 2002, chronicles the Battle of la Drang, a significant clash between the United States Army and the People’s Army of Vietnam on November 14, 1965. The film pays tribute to the courageous and heroic individuals from both sides who valiantly fought during the initial phase of the nearly two-decade-long conflict.

Mel Gibson takes on the role of Lieutenant Colonel Hal Moore, the commanding officer entrusted with training and leading a battalion of 400 men into the heart of North Vietnamese territory in la Drang Valley. This gripping drama not only highlights the unwavering unity and loyalty among the soldiers but also sheds light on the challenges and sacrifices endured by the wives they left behind. The story is based on Moore’s own novel, co-authored with war journalist Joseph L. Galloway.

We Were Soldiers received widespread acclaim for its unflinchingly honest portrayal of the Vietnam War. Critics lauded its realistic and brutally honest battle sequences, as well as its refreshing depiction of both sides of the conflict. Lieutenant Colonel Hal Moore himself commended the project, stating that it was the first Hollywood film to accurately capture the essence of the war. Moore had previously voiced his criticisms of other Vietnam War films for their depiction of soldiers. With the duo of Gibson and Wallace, known for their successful collaboration on Braveheart, We Were Soldiers delivers yet another poignant and poignant portrayal of the realities of war.

 4.  Coming Home

Coming Home stands as a remarkable film that delves into the profound aftermath of the Vietnam War with honesty and sensitivity. The narrative revolves around three tragic destinies: a conservative military wife portrayed by Jane Fonda, her Marine husband played by Bruce Dern, and a paraplegic Vietnam War veteran portrayed by Jon Voight, whom she falls in love with while volunteering at a veterans’ hospital.

The film deserves recognition for its poignant portrayal of the physical and mental struggles endured by Vietnam War veterans. Under the direction of Hal Ashby, this romantic drama adeptly showcases how American citizens who directly experienced or witnessed the war gradually lost faith in the overall conflict being fought by their own country. It serves as an early example of a film capturing the prevailing negative sentiments surrounding this significant period in American history.

In 1978, two contrasting Vietnam War films vied for the Academy Award for Best Picture: Michael Cimino’s intense masterpiece, The Deer Hunter, and Hal Ashby’s understated drama, Coming Home. While The Deer Hunter claimed the Best Picture award, Coming Home earned recognition through Fonda’s and Voight’s exceptional performances, earning them the accolades of Best Actress and Best Actor, respectively. The film was also honored as a nominee for the Palme d’Or at the 1978 Cannes Film Festival, and Voight received the Best Actor Prize at the French award ceremony. Fonda and Voight deliver powerful performances in this realistic portrayal of the emotional impact of war.

 5.  Born on the Fourth of July

Oliver Stone, a film director and United States Army veteran, served in Vietnam from 1967 to 1968, during which he endured two injuries in combat and received the Bronze Star Medal for his valor. These firsthand experiences profoundly influenced Stone’s Vietnam trilogy: Platoon (1986), which garnered him Academy Awards for Best Director and Best Picture; Born on the Fourth of July (1989), resulting in his second Best Director Oscar; and Heaven & Earth (1993).

Born on the Fourth of July stands as a poignant biographical anti-war drama, featuring Tom Cruise in a compelling lead role. The film depicts the life of Ron Kovic, an American anti-war activist who becomes paralyzed after being wounded in the Vietnam War. At the start, we encounter Kovic as an idealistic young man, driven by a desire to fight for his country. However, the atrocities of war inflict him with PTSD and alcoholism, ultimately leading him to perceive the true nature of the Vietnam War. Cruise’s remarkable portrayal of the tormented Vietnam War veteran helped him transcend his previous typecast roles and solidify his standing as a capable lead actor in prestigious dramas during the 1990s.

 6.  Good Morning, Vietnam

On the surface, Good Morning, Vietnam appears to be a comedic character study centered around Adrian Cronauer, portrayed by Robin Williams, a beloved radio DJ who entertains the troops but clashes with his superiors. Censorship plays a significant role as he faces restrictions on the news stories he can share, all of which must undergo prior approval from censors. Adrian consistently finds ways to defy his superiors and provoke their anger.

Caught between his duty to boost the soldiers’ morale and his loyalty to delivering uncensored news, Adrian grapples with the reality of the dangers surrounding him and the war itself. The film evolves from a lighthearted affair to a more serious tone as Adrian realizes the gravity of his situation. One of the reasons the Vietnam War was such a contentious conflict was the way it was broadcast into millions of American homes, ultimately shaping public opinion.

Good Morning, Vietnam delves into the profound influence that media and news possess in not only shaping the views of the audience but also the perspectives of those who broadcast it. The film frequently critiques President Nixon and his falsehoods, seamlessly weaving between moments of comedy and tragedy. Similar to Tom Cruise’s performance in Born on the Fourth of July, Robin Williams’ leading role in this acclaimed Vietnam War film solidified his reputation as a versatile and esteemed dramatic actor.

 7.  Casualties of War

Psychopathic individuals seize opportunities in various circumstances, and even during times of war, they are not exempt. In the film Casualties of War, Michael J. Fox portrays the character Max, who strongly opposes Sean Penn’s Sergeant Tony Meserve when he abducts a young, innocent Vietnamese girl. Meserve’s intention is for the platoon to subject her to a horrifying ordeal of gang rape and physical abuse for mere amusement. Despite Max’s efforts to alert the authorities, they show little interest, dismissing the incident as an interrogation of a supposed Viet Cong suspect, a claim the audience knows to be false. The girl remains largely silenced, enduring her tragic fate.

The situation becomes complex when Tony saves Max’s life, creating a sense of indebtedness. Max, determined to rescue the captive, finds himself targeted as well. John Leguizamo delivers a compelling performance as a character who initially objects to the assault but ultimately succumbs to peer pressure and the fear of antagonizing his superiors, who hold control over his life and survival. Max stands alone in his pursuit of justice for the victim, as the film is based on a true story that exposes a grave and intense reality, masterfully portrayed by the acclaimed director Brian De Palma. Sean Penn captivates as the malevolent Meserve, while Don Patrick Harvey shines in his portrayal of a bloodthirsty and enraged soldier.

 8.  Hamburger Hill

Hamburger Hill portrays the brutal violence endured by a platoon of soldiers as they relentlessly strive to conquer a hill hidden within the Vietnamese forests. On the opposing side lie the North Vietnamese soldiers, presenting a formidable challenge for the everyday soldiers who engage in battle, killing and fighting their way towards the hill’s summit. Each day, they repeat this arduous task with minimal progress, forced to retreat and begin anew, akin to the eternal struggle depicted in Albert Camus’ The Myth of Sisyphus. The king of Corinth in the myth, doomed to forever roll a stone uphill, parallels the absurdity of their uphill battle.

While the film boasts spectacularly directed and choreographed fight scenes, it is the quieter moments of conversation that truly elevate Hamburger Hill to an exceptional level. Within these discussions, the soldiers engage in arguments and debates regarding the realities of racism and systemic discrimination, the mistreatment of soldiers in America, their disdain for the media, and their yearning for the comforts they left behind: cold beer, attractive companions, and a feast of delicious foods. They also explore the challenges of reintegrating into society once their time in the war is over. Notably, a young Dylan McDermott delivers a powerful debut performance, complemented by stellar supporting roles from Steven Weber, Don Cheadle, and Courtney B. Vance.

Hamburger Hill captures the devastating physical and emotional toll of war while delving into thought-provoking conversations that expose the soldiers’ inner struggles and reflections. It serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by those on the battlefield and the profound impact such conflicts have on individuals and society as a whole.

 9.  Platoon

In Oliver Stone’s Platoon, the Vietnam War is depicted through a clear “good vs. evil” conflict, providing the audience with a stark example. Willem Dafoe and Tom Berenger portray Sergeants who engage in a battle against each other, with Charlie Sheen’s rookie character, Chris Taylor, caught in the middle. While Taylor volunteers for duty, he becomes witness to the moral struggle between Sgt. Barnes (Berenger), the definitive antagonist, and Sgt. Elias (Dafoe), who stands up against war crimes and the killing of innocent civilians.

The film follows the journey of a new recruit as he undergoes training and enters the battlefield, confronted with death and violence in every direction. Platoon offers a raw and intense depiction of the daily lives of soldiers, characterized by a constant sense of paranoia. In a similar vein to Casualties of War, the movie delves into the ways morally corrupt individuals exploit the already grim circumstances, leading to acts of rape, murder, and harm inflicted upon innocent people, including women, children, and the elderly.

Amidst the pervasive atmosphere of death, there are glimpses of lighter moments in the soldiers’ lives, such as the infamous pot-smoking scene, which adds a touch of humanity amidst the darkness. Sheen delivers a compelling performance as a rookie soldier who gradually toughens up to become a hardened warrior. Platoon, an iconic film, was honored with four Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Sound, and Best Editing. In 2019, it was selected for preservation in the United States National Film Registry by the Library of Congress, solidifying its place as an enduring American classic.

 10.  Full Metal Jacket

Stanley Kubrick’s Full Metal Jacket stands as yet another visionary masterpiece from the esteemed director. The film unfolds in two distinct parts, each offering a unique perspective on the brutal realities of war. In the first half, R. Lee Ermey, an actual drill instructor, delivers a riveting performance as a relentless and verbally abusive drill sergeant, shaping and tormenting the young men preparing to serve as Marines in the Vietnam War.

Through the eyes of Joker, portrayed by Matthew Modine, the audience witnesses the intense clash between the drill sergeant and one of the recruits, nicknamed Gomer Pyle and skillfully portrayed by Vincent D’Onofrio. Gomer’s constant missteps lead to tragic consequences, culminating in an eerie and unforgettable showdown between the two characters.

The second half of the film transports the men to the war-torn landscapes of Vietnam, where they confront the harsh realities of combat. A sniper’s attack on their comrade forces them into a moral dilemma when their rescue mission becomes a trap. The performances are exceptional, with R. Lee Ermey and Vincent D’Onofrio delivering standout portrayals. Ermey’s portrayal of the drill instructor became the archetype for similar characters in subsequent military films, with his iconic voice even being employed by Pixar for the character Sarge in Toy Story. Meanwhile, D’Onofrio captivates as the mentally disturbed recruit, undergoing a chilling transformation into a lethal soldier.

As expected from Kubrick, Full Metal Jacket is a visual feast, with each shot crafted with meticulous attention to detail. The film’s cinematography showcases Kubrick’s signature style and elevates every frame to the status of art.

 11.  The Deer Hunter

The Deer Hunter stands as a powerfully intense and emotionally devastating film, propelled by the flawless performances of its main cast. The initial hour of the story unfolds in the United States, as three men, portrayed by Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken, and John Savage, prepare to embark on their journey to Vietnam. Their subsequent experiences become an epic tragedy of unparalleled proportions. Captured by the brutal North Vietnamese army, the men are thrust into the horrors of being prisoners of war, confined to squalid and deplorable pits where they endure unspeakable torture. The unforgettable Russian Roulette scene, often imitated but never replicated, forces the soldiers to face the stark randomness and absurdity of death in war, becoming a haunting symbol of the film.

As the narrative progresses, the men eventually escape and follow separate paths. Christopher Walken’s character, Nicky, remains in Vietnam, consumed by heroin addiction and the nihilistic allure of professional Russian Roulette for monetary gain. The film, like other remarkable Vietnam War depictions, portrays the army and the war itself as inherently mad, with Russian Roulette serving as a metaphor for the senseless and chaotic nature of death in combat.

The Deer Hunter masterfully captures the harrowing violence and turmoil of the war, delving into the characters’ struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder and heroin addiction, rendering them unable to reintegrate into society. Notably, the film not only won the prestigious Academy Award for Best Picture but also became one of the earliest cinematic works to confront the Vietnam War, released a mere three years after the war’s end.

 12.  Apocalypse Now

Apocalypse Now stands as a cinematic masterpiece, renowned for its iconic scenes that have left an indelible mark on the history of war films and the broader realm of 20th-century cinema. Directed by the acclaimed Francis Ford Coppola, the film boasts an abundance of memorable moments, profound dialogue, and breathtaking battle sequences, solidifying its status as a magnum opus.

Drawing inspiration from Joseph Conrad’s literary work, Heart of Darkness, which explores the darkness within the human psyche during Europe’s colonial era in Africa, Coppola skillfully transplants the narrative into the harrowing backdrop of the Vietnam War. Marlon Brando delivers a mesmerizing portrayal of the unhinged Col. Kurtz, an enigmatic leader who commands his own fanatical army within the forbidden reaches of Cambodia’s forbidden zone. Tasked with eliminating Kurtz, Martin Sheen’s Army Captain Benjamin Willard embarks on a perilous mission.

Apocalypse Now showcases an array of unforgettable scenes, supported by exceptional performances from the likes of Robert Duvall, Laurence Fishburne, and particularly Dennis Hopper, who embodies a devoted follower of Kurtz. Notably, the film also features an almost unrecognizable Harrison Ford during his ascent as a prominent figure in Hollywood, portraying a compelling supporting role.

The release of Apocalypse Now Redux, a version that includes additional hours of footage deleted from the original film, further accentuates its grandeur. Amidst the pantheon of iconic Vietnam War movies such as The Deer Hunter, Born on the Fourth of July, and Full Metal Jacket, Apocalypse Now continues to hold a special place in the collective consciousness, often being the first film that comes to mind when contemplating this tumultuous period in history.