One of those war movies where most of the action takes place away from the battlefield, Jacob's Ladder is a psychological thriller/mystery with a heavy dose of conspiracy. At its best, it raises powerful questions about love, loss, and what makes life worth living. For the downsides, it can feel disjointed and premised on dubious plot developments. There's also a certain political edge to it that I suspect resonates much less with most viewers than it did upon release. After all, it's a 1990 film about the Vietnam War. No one alive today in America who served in that war is under 60.
I'll say nothing of the plot. The ending was spoiled for me before I started the movie, and I think that detracted from some of the film's punch. That said, it makes me wonder how much value the film has on rewatch.
I'll say nothing of the plot. The ending was spoiled for me before I started the movie, and I think that detracted from some of the film's punch. That said, it makes me wonder how much value the film has on rewatch.