The Deer Hunter

This week we discuss the 1978 American epic war drama film The Deer Hunter directed by Michael Cimino.

Nominated for 9 awards and winner of 5 - best picture, best director, best sound, best film editing and best supporting actor for Walken. This is a must see for all movie aficionados. 

This movie is about a trio of Slavic-American steelworkers whose lives are upended after fighting in the Vietnam War.

The three soldiers are played by Robert De Niro, Christopher Walken and John Savage, with John Cazale (in his final role). Meryl Streep and George Dzundza star in supporting roles.

The first half of the story takes place in a working-class town in Pittsburgh, and the second half in Vietnam.

This is a powerful film. A film that will remain with you for a long time.

The intensity of the acting draws you into the pyschological trauma these men suffer.

In the words of the Aussie; "it's an after not a during".

Persevere through the first hour and you will be rewarded in the second.

The russian roulette scenes are some of the most famous in movie history.

The ending is 'divisive' and the boys do not agree on the meaning but they try and articulate it.

This is not a film for the light hearted - and you don't have to watch this movie to listen. 

It is one of the best movies of its generation.

If you have seen this tell us what you think in the comments below.

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