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Watch In Country
- R
- 1989
- 1 hr 55 min
-
5.9 (3,114)
In Country is a 1989 drama film directed by Norman Jewison, based on the novel by Bobbie Ann Mason. The movie is set in the small town of Hopewell, Kentucky, and tells the story of Samantha Hughes (Emily Lloyd), a high school graduate whose father died in the Vietnam War. Samantha lives with her uncle Emmett (Bruce Willis), a Vietnam veteran who suffers from PTSD, and her paternal grandparents.
Samantha is obsessed with her father's death and wants to know more about him and what happened in Vietnam. She starts to do research and reads books about the war, watches documentaries, and speaks to veterans. She becomes determined to visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington D.C. and bring closure to her father's death.
Emmett initially tries to dissuade Samantha from her idea, warning her about the horrors of the war and the impact it had on him and other veterans. However, Samantha persists, and Emmett eventually agrees to take her on the trip.
The movie then follows Samantha and Emmett's journey to Washington D.C. and their emotional and physical struggles along the way. They visit a veteran's hospital, where Emmett encounters a former comrade who is now disabled, and they go to a bar where they meet a group of veterans who share their stories with Samantha.
Back in Hopewell, Samantha also becomes close with her history teacher, Irene (Joan Allen), who is also a Vietnam War veteran. Irene opens up to Samantha about her experiences in the war and how they have affected her life.
In Country is a moving portrayal of the impact of the Vietnam War on soldiers and their families. It deals with themes of grief, loss, memory, and the struggle to come to terms with a traumatic past. The movie also touches on the issues of PTSD, survivor's guilt, and the difficulties for veterans to readjust to civilian life.
Emily Lloyd gives a wonderful performance as Samantha, capturing both her youthful enthusiasm and her emotional depths. Bruce Willis is also excellent as Uncle Emmett, portraying the character's inner turmoil and his love for Samantha. Joan Allen is sensitive and nuanced as Irene, bringing a different perspective to the war as a female soldier.
The movie is well-directed by Norman Jewison, who balances the emotional moments with the humor and warmth of the characters. The screenplay by Frank Pierson and Cynthia Cidre is insightful and respectful, avoiding melodrama while still being heartbreaking and honest.
The movie also benefits from a great soundtrack, featuring classic songs from the 1960s and 1970s. The music becomes a significant element of the film, evoking the emotions of the period and connecting the characters to their past.
In conclusion, In Country is a powerful movie that explores the complexities of the Vietnam War and its aftermath. It features an excellent cast, a well-crafted screenplay, and sensitive direction. The film is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices of soldiers and their impact on their families and communities.
In Country is a 1989 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 55 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.9.