Forget the dozens of Hollywood films glamourising the Vietnam War - if you only ever watch one film on this subject, this has to be that film.Harrowing in places it shows the sheer futility of America's war on Communism and the human costs involved - from the slaying of innocent women and children to the desensitising effect on the American soldiers (young, conscripted men with no real conception of why they were there).
Kubrick's clever use of music and images is striking - from The Doors to Wagner the effects and atmosphere created on screen are theatrical.
Martin Sheen's performance is one of his best as the commander tasked with seeking out Colonel Kurtz, played by Marlon Brando, whose performance is breathtaking.
As true a depiction of the madness of modern warfare as you are ever likely to find on screen.