Full Metal Jacket

The movie Full Metal Jacket puts forth a great argument for the soldier's point of view on the Vietnam War. Almost every seen in the movie shows a negative viewpoint on the war by showing the marine's general outlook on their purpose and by using joker as the embodiment of the nation itself. The nation at the time was split on the war because it was seen to have no valid reason for being there in the first place. When the marines were interviewed in the city, many didn't know what the point was in fighting for people that just didn't care. One even stated that they were "shooting the wrong gooks." Joker, I thought, was a perfect example of the general mindset of every American at the time. He shows that he has strong beliefs for things, such as religion when he confronts the drill sergeant. However, he goes against being a good friend when under pressure and beats private Pile at night with the rest of the platoon. This is very similar to how many Americans believed in the "idea" in helping the Vietnamese people, but very few actually could when presented with the opportunity.