Vietnam: Der Krieg, der die USA veränderte

From the moment the trailer begins, it is clear that Vietnam: The War That Changed America is more than just an historical account-it's an emotional exploration of the war's human cost. Featuring never-before-seen archival footage and deeply personal testimonies, the series provides a nuanced portrait of the soldiers, civilians, and activists who experienced the war firsthand. The inclusion of long-awaited reunions between former soldiers, as well as perspectives from both American and Vietnamese individuals, adds an element of reconciliation and raw authenticity rarely seen in war documentaries.

Apple TV+'s compelling documentary Vietnam: The War That Changed America is a gripping six-part series, narrated by Academy Award nominee Ethan Hawke, that marks the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, offering an unfiltered look at one of the most divisive conflicts in American history.

One of the documentary's greatest strengths is its wide array of voices. From Bill Broyles, a former Marine turned Hollywood screenwriter, to Hilary Brown, ABC News' first female foreign correspondent, and Melvin Pender, an Olympic gold medalist who served between deployments, the series provides a multifaceted look at the war's impact. Even more striking are the perspectives of Viet Cong fighters and Vietnamese civilians, offering a crucial counterpoint to the American narrative. These voices help construct a more complete and deeply humanized understanding of the conflict. Director Rob Coldstream and producer Caroline Marsden craft the series with a level of detail and sensitivity that elevates it beyond a simple historical retelling. The visuals, drawn from over 1,100 hours of archival footage, immerse viewers in the reality of war, while Ethan Hawke's narration provides a steady, reflective tone that balances the intensity of the material. What makes Vietnam: The War That Changed America truly stand out is its ability to connect past and present. The war left scars not only on those who fought but on the entire American political and cultural landscape.

This series really shows how the Vietnam War reshaped the United States in ways still felt today, from attitudes toward military intervention to the power of protest movements. For history enthusiasts, war documentary fans, or anyone seeking a deeply human look at one of the most defining conflicts of the 20th century, Vietnam: The War That Changed America is essential viewing.

I give Vietnam: The War That Changed America 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It premieres on Apple TV+ on January 31, 2025. By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST!

Without a doubt, this documentary stands out as one of the most compelling examinations of the Vietnam War. It offers an unflinching look at a conflict that shaped not only a generation but also the very fabric of American society. Viewing it can be a challenging experience; the emotional weight of the stories shared by the veterans who returned home is deeply moving. The documentary also offers a rare glimpse into the lives of those that fought against the "foreign invaders". You hear from some of the Viet Cong their first hand accounts of the war and what pushed them and gave them the drive to fight as hard as they did.

The documentary is not only a recounting of events; it presents the raw, human side of war through the experiences of those who served, on both sides. Each personal account is a testament to the courage and resilience of individuals who faced unimaginable horrors. Many of these brave individuals fought in a war they personally grappled with, often questioning the very purpose of their involvement. Yet, their commitment to one another, their comrades, illuminated a bond that had lasting impact even after the battle ended and they returned to their home lands.

Even if war documentaries are not typically your preference, I wholeheartedly encourage you to watch this series. It provides a rare opportunity to gain insight into the sacrifices made by these individuals, not just the physical toll, but the emotional and psychological scars that persist long after their guns have fallen silent. The series captures the profound spirit and camaraderie of those who fought, a bond forged in the fires of conflict that most of us can hardly fathom.

In short, this series sheds light on a complex chapter of history and honors the legacy of those who served with unmatched dedication. It invites viewers to reflect on their experiences, encouraging empathy and understanding for sacrifices that are often overlooked. It also helps to instill a spirit of thanks so that when you see that service member wearing a hat or other item signifying their service you have no choice but to stop and thank them.

Is the failure to mention the criminal, corrupt & venal CHENNAULT AFFAIR, which extended the war by years & cost thousands of unnecessary American lives for political purposes. . Nixon & Kissinger should have tried & died in prison. Otherwise, a balanced presentation. Particularly the view from the North. Having served late in the war & living through the riots, the protests, the war, & the end, I liked this series. I regret much in life, but I'm proud of my service to the nation: not the war, but the comradere & protection of my fellow soldiers. The war shaped me...and scared me. But at least I came home.

The only flaw this documentary had was that it was not longer. What an absolute incredible documentary. From showing detailed footage to a detailed, well driven veteran narrative. After watching this i really wanted to know more about the stories the vets told while interviewed. In my opinion they should have filled out the interviews, making them much longer. Most if not all interviews were very touching and well laid out. Some interviews was also combined with footage where the interviewed veteran actually was inte combat footage, which was very interesting. I can recommend this documentary series to any one interested in the Vietnam war, no matter how much you already think you know about it.

"Vietnam: The War That Changed America" is a profound documentary that delves into the human stories behind the Vietnam War. Narrated by Ethan Hawke, it combines raw archival footage with personal accounts from soldiers, nurses, and Vietnamese civilians, creating an intimate and immersive experience. The filmmakers avoid sensationalism, focusing instead on authentic storytelling that captures the emotional and historical impact of the war. This approach ensures a fresh and engaging narrative throughout, making it a standout in the genre.

In contrast, many Netflix documentaries often fall into the trap of being overly dramatic and campy, prioritizing runtime over substance. They tend to stretch content thin, adding unnecessary filler to meet episode quotas. Apple TV+, however, takes a different approach by focusing on high-quality content that respects the viewer's time. Their documentaries are concise, well-researched, and avoid the pitfalls of campiness, offering a more genuine and impactful viewing experience. This commitment to quality over quantity sets Apple apart in the competitive streaming landscape.