I read that there was a version of "The Quiet American" made in the 1950s. Since the Vietnam War had not yet happened - at least not its really famous stages - that version could have been seen as a warning. Since this one came out long after the Vietnam War (in fact, shortly before the invasion of Iraq), it's both a warning and saying "I told you so".
The obvious point is that this movie is not a war movie, but it's still a good look at what led up to the Vietnam War, as the young American agent (Brendan Fraser) comes in pretending to help the people but is actually coming to stir up trouble that the US can use as an excuse to invade. This may be the best role that he has ever done, to the extent that the movie would work equally well without the presence of a great actor like Michael Caine (no offense to Mr. Caine).
So, it's certainly one that I recommend, as a warning about the dangers of militarism, even in its most minimal form. Also starring Rade Serbedzija and Tzi Ma.
The obvious point is that this movie is not a war movie, but it's still a good look at what led up to the Vietnam War, as the young American agent (Brendan Fraser) comes in pretending to help the people but is actually coming to stir up trouble that the US can use as an excuse to invade. This may be the best role that he has ever done, to the extent that the movie would work equally well without the presence of a great actor like Michael Caine (no offense to Mr. Caine).
So, it's certainly one that I recommend, as a warning about the dangers of militarism, even in its most minimal form. Also starring Rade Serbedzija and Tzi Ma.