Before it leaves the convenience of the instant stream, make sure to check out Stanley Kubrick’s classic Vietnam War film, FULL METAL JACKET. We’re also discussing one of Netflix’s weirdest original series, the animated BOJACK HORESMAN.
But if these don’t interest you, you can always read our previous installments: Episode 19 and Episode 18.
FULL METAL JACKET – Dir. Stanley Kubrick (1987)
Kubrick had a way with choosing a genre and making its’ defining film. That’s exactly what he did with the Vietnam War genre and Full Metal Jacket. You’ve likely seen some key parts of the first half of this film, with R. Lee Ermy as the hilariously cruel drill instructor, Sgt. Hartman, screaming abusive insults at each and every private. Many people don’t realize there’s so much more to this film. When the soldiers finally leave the security of Sgt. Hartman’s harassment, they’re left to face the difficult realities of war. Their morality is questioned with ever bullet that leaves their rifle and their humanity is tested with every life they take.
To be honest, this is a difficult film to watch. It doesn’t glorify war like some of the genre’s other most notable inclusions, and it certainly doesn’t give the impression that any of the characters are heroic in their deeds. They simple do what they were trained to do and that’s something they must live with for the rest of their lives (if they ever make it out of Vietnam, that is). Needless to say, it’s a deep movie. It tackles more complex themes than your average war flick and doesn’t get bogged down in mindless action, not to say there isn’t any action. And like every Kubrick film, it’s simply a classic that must be seen. You may not enjoy it upon first viewing, but within a few months you’ll be itching to watch it again. Just make sure you catch it before it enters the ether on May 1.
BOJACK HORESMAN – 2 Seasons
Netflix’s first original animated series may not be for everyone. The humor is dry and the many of the characters are quite unlikeable, but the story is worth coming back for. Will Arnett lends the voice of Bojack, a washed-up actor (and anthropomorphic horse), who battles with the struggles of living in the shadows of his former self all while being a jerk to everyone who cares about him. Season 1 follows the writing of his memoirs and his various escapades throughout the city of Los Angeles. He’s trying to make himself a household name again and recapture some of the glory of his younger years.
Overall, it’s kind of a sad show. I mean, it’s hysterical, but Bojack is a depressing character. Sure, he’s rich and he’s famous but he’s also mean, unmotivated, and addicted to drugs and alcohol. And yeah, it’s a little weird seeing giant horses, cats, and tarantulas walking around and interacting with humans, but all of that simply adds to the comedy of the show. Just try out the first few episodes. If it doesn’t stick, it’s probably not your sense of humor. But deep down, it’s a really heart-felt show.