Director Spike Lee has never been subtle in the stories he tells. So don’t expect anything less with his latest that’s part war film and part heist thriller, in which he teaches us a hellish history lesson of African Americans protecting a country that’s not willing to do the same. It’s entertaining, violent, funny, and leaves a lasting impression on what patriotism looks and feels like.
Following four black Vietnam vets who are going back to the jungle for the remains of their fallen leader and to get what they think is theirs, their pains of the past and the greed that consumes them tests their brotherhood unlike anything they have faced before. Within a phenomenal cast, Delroy Lindo as Paul stands out with a powerful performance, boiling with intensity and anger from living a life of loss and guilt. Jonathan Majors is also riveting as Paul’s son who wants to fix his fractured relationship with his dad.
This is a tremendous tribute to the black soldiers who served in Vietnam and a brave exploration of the torment that’s never ending. For Paul and his other “bloods,” their sacrifice and affliction on and off the battlefield is inescapable. Inside of all of these vets’ heads, there’s no peace in a war that never ends. There’s nothing freeing about it.
In Lee’s impassioned, confrontational storytelling, the hatred that arises from war isn’t one-sided, its effects are widespread through generations, countries, and cultures. The outrage and injustice that’s projected onscreen is profound and of the moment, yet the presence of hope and love is just as impactful. Lee is ready for combat when it comes to how our nation’s stories are told and what color they’re in. For this one of a kind cinematic voice, his tantalizing ‘Nam epic is a surefire victory.
Brandon Vick is a member of The Music City Film Critics’ Association, the resident film critic of the SoBros Network, and the star of The Vick’s Flicks Podcast. Follow him on Twitter @SirBrandonV and be sure to search #VicksFlicks for all of his latest movie reviews.
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