Film during much of the Vietnam War and in subsequent years usually attempted to push a strong agenda. Only later did the films become less biased, especially when talking about Vietnam. The Ugly American, directed by George Englund, and The Green Berets, directed by John Wayne, are no exception. An unnecessary war. However, although the two films differ greatly in their opinions, they both tend to convey the horrors of war. The Green Berets was a film that continually encouraged its audience to prolong the Vietnam War. At the very beginning of the film, a scene takes place that sets the stage for the rest of the film Green Berets of their talent with responses listing the numerous qualifications they had (Green Berets, The) was clearly attempting to convince his viewers that the Green Berets were a noble group deserving of praise and support. Additionally, the entire film consists of Americans easily defeating Vietnamese soldiers. When John Wayne's character finds a North Vietnamese soldier following coordinates for an attack, he easily beats him with one punch (Green Berets, The). For the public, events like these might lead them to believe that Vietnamese victory could be easily achieved. Third, the journalist tries to be objective. Once at the camp he states: “I will tell the people what I saw”, without distorting the truth (Green Berets, The). However, the reality is probably more like he distorts the truth without any reason to support the war. All in all, The Green Berets showcases a propaganda film that contrasts sharply with many others...... middle of paper... overall. In conclusion, the main purpose of The Green Berets was to convince its audience The Vietnam War was essential; on the contrary, the ugly American attempted to scold him. However, it is also clear that they both had a common goal; one that expressed the cruelty that war can have. John Wayne's approach of defeating all communists was becoming a less popular opinion by the time the film was released. Instead, the ideals conveyed by The Ugly American were the most popular. Unless these two styles of thinking are reconciled, the countries of the world are destined to be trapped in a protracted war. Works Cited Green Berets, The. Dir. John Wayne and Ray Kellog. Perf. John Wayne, David Jannsen and Jim Hutton. Waner Brothers, 1968. The Ugly American, The. Dir. George Englund. Perff. Marlon Brando, Sandra Church, Eiji Okada, Pat Hingle and Arthur Hill. Universal, 1963.
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