In 1987, Stanley Kubrick unleashed 'Full Metal Jacket' onto the big screen. Many say this is one of the most realistic depictions of war ever made. Others think it's one of the worst war movies ever made. Either way, I saw it and have some things I like and don't like about the film.

The movie starts with new recuits in the Army taking verbal abuse by Sgt. Hartman in their boot camp...and that's pretty much all that happens throughout the entire first part of the film. We meet a few characters, like Joker, Gomer Pyle, and Cowboy. But for the most part it's Hartman yelling at people, and a little bit of training. However, the things Hartman sometimes says are hilarious, and I felt bad for laughing at some of the brutal things he was saying. And it always felt real, and tense. I felt scared for characters when they messed up something becuse I knew Hartman would do something to them. It's pretty good if a movie can make you feel scared for the characters. Although all the elements worked, they got old after 20 minutes, I was sick of the yelling and training, and I wanted to see something interesting.

Right before the halfwaypoint of the movie, Pvt. Pyle finally breaks. Since the beginning of the film, he had been basically tormented, and then finally loses it.

Now, the second half of the movie is here, and I like it so much better than the first. There is a lot more going on, it's not tense to the point where it's not enjoyable, so you could enjoy watching it, and it's finally when we start to see some actual warfare. The main character Joker is now in Vietnam, and isn't in the shit, but he's a writer. Sort of like a journalist for the Marines. Him and his friend actually get a chance to be in the war, and fight. He meets up with his old pal Cowboy, they pick up a hooker, and there's a film crew there to record interviews, and stories of everyone there.

I don't have much more to say about it because, I don't have anymore problems with the film, after the halfway point. It becomes my kind of movie. Engaging, funny, and heartfelt. There is planty of warfare, a couple shocking scenes, and still a lot more of the sharp, and clever dialog.

I also must say the entire movie felt extremely realistic from the uncomfortableness in boot camp, to the fear, and tenseness in Vietnam.

This movie might not be the best war film ever made, but I like it. The second half more than makes up for the dull and repetitive first half, and That's why I recommend this movie.

Grade: B