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The Impact of the 1970s Vietnam War Films on Cinema
The 1970s left a significant mark on cinematic history with a series of poignant films centered around the Vietnam War. Among these, Apocalypse Now, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, stands out as perhaps the most iconic. However, standing closely in its shadow is The Deer Hunter, an extraordinary film by Michael Cimino released in 1978. While it may not enjoy the same level of recognition as Brando’s and Sheen’s acclaimed work, The Deer Hunter remains undeniably a cinematic masterpiece.
A Deep Dive into the Storyline of The Deer Hunter
The Deer Hunter unfolds against the backdrop of 1968 and intricately portrays the lives of steelworkers in Clairton, Pennsylvania. The film follows the journey of friends Mike, Steven, Nick, Stan, and Axel, who share a tight bond. Their camaraderie faces drastic changes as the Vietnam War begins, with three of them being drafted into combat, forever altering the course of their lives.
Cimino had only directed one film before The Deer Hunter, a lesser-known police comedy titled Thunderbolt and Lightfoot, starring Clint Eastwood and Jeff Bridges. Yet, with his second endeavor, he boldly shifted genres to create a harrowing narrative that continues to resonate half a century later. Scenes portraying intense moments like Russian roulette and deer hunting have etched themselves into cinematic lore.
Outstanding Performances That Define a Generation
This film is renowned for its brilliant performances by Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken, and John Savage, who collectively elevate the film to near perfection. It boasts an impressive 86% rating from critics, with audiences on 123moviesful awarding it an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars. As one viewer notes, “An incredible film that is intense, moving, and unforgettable”. Another reviewer emphasizes its powerful portrayal of the lingering effects of war on survivors, particularly concerning the Vietnam conflict.
The Deer Hunter
A Touching Story Behind the Scenes
The film also had a profound impact on Meryl Streep’s life. In a remarkable act of compassion, Robert De Niro urged Cimino to cast Streep and her partner, John Cazale, who was battling terminal cancer and required financial assistance for his medical bills. Despite initial resistance from producers due to financial concerns, De Niro willingly agreed to cover the insurance costs to provide employment for the couple for several months.
Cazale managed to film all his scenes within the initial weeks of shooting but sadly passed away before the final cut was completed. Although Streep wasn’t particularly invested in her role initially—essentially a love interest—she ended up garnering an Oscar nomination, marking the beginning of her illustrious career in Hollywood.
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