Apocalypse Now - Meghan Frank
I disagree with Tomasulo's assertion that Apocalypse Now is both a pro-war and an anti-war film. Apocalypse Now shows the unnecessary violence that was the Vietnam War. Tomasulo uses the "Charlie's Point" battle scene as an example of the pro-war message. This scene is in no way advocating war. The U.S military destroys a village for the sole reason that it has the best surf. To inflict that amount of destruction and devestation so they can surf gives a message that the war was based on ridiculous plans. Tomasulo suggests that showing the Vietcong fighting back justifies the attack. The initial reason remains and the scene simply shows the necessary attempts by the villagers to defend themselves from brutal attacks.
Tomasulo also suggests that Colonel Kurtz is portrayed simultaneously as a hero and a villan. He "became an outlaw to the generals" because he ordered the unauthorized execution of 4 suspected Vietnamese double agents. While it seems he was right about the accusations the killings were still portrayed as ruthless and unnecessary. Kurtz is shown as deranged and out of control and is never portrayed as a hero even with his multiple awards.