What’s It About
Four African American vets battle the forces of man and nature when they return to Vietnam seeking the remains of their fallen squad leader and the gold fortune he helped them hide.
MOVIESinMO REVIEW
From the second this film starts and right up the last words spoken, Da 5 Bloods is an instant classic. It teaches, it informs, and like all Spike Lee joints, you walk away with a better understanding of what really matters from several perspectives. Each of the main four characters’ personal battles is unique yet relatable by many people forced to go through similar situations. The trauma of war, drug use because of war, and conflicting feelings about the United States as a soldier and a Black man all play significant parts when deciphering the psyche of everyone involved. Throughout the movie, their friendship was tested consistently, and all discovered new truths about each other. Eddie (Norm Lewis) was the dealership owner with a questionable income. Isiah Whitlock Jr. as Melvin was the somewhat peacekeeper of the group. Otis (Clarke Peters), the medic of the group. David (Jonathan Majors), the son Paul, was used to show family relevance. That leaves Paul, played by Delroy Lindo. The standout character and besides the history lesson this film provides, Paul is what happens to most of our troops. Then there are the flashbacks involving Norman (Chadwick Boseman), the squad leader, showing how he played a pivotal role in shaping the other troops. The plot of this movie would lead you to believe it is mainly about retrieving the remains of Norman and finding the gold they hide during the Vietnam war. That is a small part of this film, but it does give reasons for the soldiers to reunite in Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, and kickstart a great story. Last note, the timing of Da 5 Bloods is perfect. They were able to incorporate past historical moments with currents issues plaguing America. That alone presents a picture of how far we haven’t gone, how much still needs to be done, and, hopefully, a future that will be worth living in for everyone.
OUR RATING – A HISTORICALLY SIGNIFICANT 8