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Platoon

I've had a few students ask for recommendations with regard to Vietnam War films. Personally, my preferences are "Born on the Fourth of July" and "Platoon." I'll provide Wikipedia and other links here so you can learn more about these films. After you've done your research and you decide to view one of these films, let me know. Perhaps we can work together on coming up with a project to go along with one of the films.

"Platoon" (Wikipedia):
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Platoon_%28film%29
Other links:
http://www.platoondvd.com/
Washington Post review:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/style/longterm/movies/videos/platoonrattanasio_a0ad90.htm
Interview with Oliver Stone (He discusses both "Born on the Fourth of July" and "Platoon.")
http://globetrotter.berkeley.edu/Stone/stone-con5.html
PBS American Experience - Vietnam
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/amex/vietnam/index.html

"Born on the Fourth of July" (Wikipedia)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Born_on_the_Fourth_of_July
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Comments

tylermi w said…
I was wondering..... Although "Platoon" and "Born on The Fourth of July" have to do with the Vietnam war do either of these movies have anything to do with the other sides story? I know they deal with mostly America and American soldiers but what about the Democratic Republic of Vietnam? My idea is maybe I would be able to use one of these as a World History project if I was able to learn not just about the Americans but also the side of the Vietnamese. Would this be possible? If not i would appreciate some thoughts or suggestions.
July 9, 2008 at 9:19 AM
Social Studies Toolbox said…
tyler- Platoon might be a better choice, but yes, you can definitely do something with one of these movies. In Platoon, there is a scene roughly based on the My Lai massacre. Maybe you would want to research that event and post your comments here. I also have a photojournalism lesson posted on the blog dealing with iconic images from the Vietnam War.
July 11, 2008 at 10:45 AM
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