Thursday's documentary was incredibly intriguing.
Hollywood Vietnam delved into the lucrative industry that emerged soon after the Vietnam War, portraying various aspects of the war whether it be actual combat, the effect on the soldiers, or the social implications of the conflict. I think I was first startled by how many films they featured in the documentary about the war and the varying angles they chose. In the beginning, one commentator said that, "Hollywood has the benefit of time" which is incredibly true as they are able to sit and gauge public opinion better than other media are able to do so. I believe the outpouring of Vietnam cinema we see infused in popular culture is almost a retaliation for how society treated the incoming veterans of war.
Questions of the Week- What social function did these movies play?
- Why is society so fond of war movies?
Question Answered: What social function did these movies play?
These movies served as a reflection of society in a sense. It was almost as if filmmakers held a mirror to the general public and began creating a film. As film and Hollywood has the luxury of waiting as long as they please before they embark on a project, what they convey may be a bit more accurate than other media. With this being said, films may be one of our most informed media.
