Movie Reviews for Good Morning, Vietnam (Special Edition)

Good Morning, Vietnam (Special Edition)

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Movie Reviews of Good Morning, Vietnam (Special Edition)

Movie Review: Good morning indeed...
Summary: 4 Stars

When `Good Morning Vietnam' allows itself to be nothing more than entertainment it passes with flying colors. It's the type of movie that really doesn't need too much of a plot. When the film tries to add some substance to its running time is when it starts to fray at the edges.

`Good Morning Vietnam' tells the somewhat true story (as in the film is not entirely faithful to actual events) of Adrian Cronauer, a radio DJ who spiced things up during the Vietnam War. During his stationing in Vietnam he raised the morale of the troupes but also managed to press the buttons of some of the higher officials who saw his approach to broadcast as a slap in the face so-to-speak. Their resistance didn't stop Cronauer from expressing his viewpoints and bucking the system, reading news he felt the troupes needed to hear, telling jokes he felt would raise their spirits and playing music he knew they would enjoy.

When the film is focused on that aspect of Cronauer's stay it soars. Robin Williams is hilarious, we all know this, and the film really allows him to just perform his standup routine to us all to enjoy; and enjoy we do. Williams also manages to delve into the moments that startle and unravel Adrian, piecing together a complete man and not just a walking punch-line.

But then, sadly, the film tries to add weight, and that weight comes in the form of Tuan, a young Vietnamese boy who befriends Adrian. For the majority of the film he seems harmless enough; just an acquaintance to add some humanity to Williams' character, but in the third act new revelations are revealed and his character changes, and this spurs the film in an entirely different direction that, in my humble opinion, takes away from the films enjoyment.

It feels forced and unnecessary.

Until that moment though, the film is wonderful. It is funny and moving and meaningful. The performances for the most part are also splendid. Williams received a much deserved Oscar nomination for his performance, and of the nominated five I have a feeling I would have leaned towards Williams for the win as well. Tung Thanh Tran is also effective as Tuan, even if his characters development is ridiculous in my opinion. Forest Whitaker is somewhat annoying here, but it was early in his career so I'll give him some slack (is it just me or does he sound like David Chappelle's imitation of a white man?). The real standout here is Bruno Kirby who just nails Lt. Steven Hauk's wit and humor (or un-wit and un-humor) brilliantly and provides some of the films biggest laughs.

In the end I must say that I enjoyed `Good Morning Vietnam' and would love to say that it was one of the best films of 1987. If the ending had been ditched for one more appropriate then I would say that, but that pesky final act just throws the whole thing for me. I recommend this film, because it has a lot going for it; it just pains me to say that it could have been even better.

Movie Review: Excellent Story
Summary: 4 Stars

Set during the vietnam war, Williams is a private who's job is a DJ for the base radio station. He brings his own brand of humor and music to the station, which the troops in the field are thoroughly enjoy; however, his immediate superioirs are against it. Good personal interaction story, many subplots, Williams humor is fantastic! You will enjoy the show!

Movie Review: Robin Williams in one of his best!
Summary: 4 Stars

What a great movie! I've had this movie on VHS for years and was so very glad to find it on DVD. It truly is one of Robin Williams best movie roles. The movie is funny, tender, and touching. This movie also was my introduction to Forest Whitaker as an actor. How could you go wrong here..Robin Williams and Forest Whitaker in Good Morning Vietnam.