Watch Combat Shock

Combat Shock from 1984 is a dark and gritty film that explores the haunting effects of war and societal neglect on a Vietnam veteran living in poverty in Staten Island, New York. Directed by Buddy Giovinazzo, the film follows Frankie (played by Rick Giovinazzo), a former soldier struggling to support his wife (Veronica Stork) and deformed child in a rundown apartment building.

Set in a bleak and desolate urban landscape, Combat Shock is a visceral portrayal of the horrors of war, poverty and isolation. The film opens with unsettling war footage and scenes of soldiers committing atrocities, providing a glimpse into the trauma that Frankie has experienced. Upon returning home from the war, Frankie finds himself unable to adjust to civilian life, haunted by memories of the violence he experienced and the atrocities he committed. He is further disillusioned by the lack of support from his government and society at large, and becomes increasingly disillusioned and desperate.

As the film progresses, we see Frankie struggling to make ends meet, working a dead-end job at a meat processing plant and trying to sell some of his possessions to make money. He is constantly tormented by the memories of his time in the war, as well as the harsh reality of his current circumstances. His wife is also struggling to cope, becoming increasingly distant and resentful towards him.

Despite his desperate situation, Frankie tries to remain optimistic, dreaming of a better life for himself and his family. However, the constant barrage of setbacks and hardships he experiences eventually leads him down a path of self-destruction.

Throughout the film, the gritty and realistic depiction of Frankie's life is juxtaposed with surreal and dreamlike sequences, further emphasizing the bleakness of his existence. The film also touches on themes of racism and economic inequality, showcasing the harsh realities faced by many working-class Americans.

The acting in Combat Shock is raw and powerful, with Giovinazzo delivering a haunting performance as the tortured and desperate Frankie. The supporting cast also shines, with Stork delivering a nuanced portrayal of a woman struggling to cope with her husband's trauma, and Mitch Maglio providing a chilling performance as a drug dealer who tempts Frankie into a life of crime.

Overall, Combat Shock is a bleak and powerful film that offers a raw and unflinching portrayal of the dark side of the American dream. Although it is a difficult and uncomfortable watch at times, it is also a thought-provoking exploration of the effects of war on individuals and society, as well as the harsh realities faced by those who are marginalized and forgotten.

Combat Shock is a 1986 horror movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 32 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.2.