Review of the movie The Deer Hunter

The Deer Hunter (1978) An emotionally charged story of friendship, The Deer Hunter investigates the effects of Vietnam War on a small town community from a common-man perspective. Its narrative can be divided into three parts, with three central figures. The first part (close to an hour) portrays the social life in Clariton in general and the relationship of the main characters in particular. In the extended wedding scene and the following hunting session, the links …

…In my opinion, half of the film’s success is due to the believable performances. De Niro in the scenes in which Mike returns home a hero, and feels compelled to avoid his welcome are tremendous. He seems blank by the struggle and distanced from old friends. Walken is also effective in his transformation to a psychologically ruined personality. In detailing how war destroys individuals, relationships and communities, the film is disturbing, sad, and successful.