I have always been against war, it's one of the most absurd things that human beings do. The Vietnam War was a very cruel and irrational war which left an indelible mark on the American people, thousands of young people lost their lives there, others were crippled and with difficult psychological trauma to overcome.
The films that I have watched related to the Vietnam War and that deal with this type of subject are, The Deer Hunter (1978), Apocalypse Now (1979), Platoon (1986), Full Metal Jacket (1987), but in my opinion the Best of all has been Born on the Fourth of July (1989).
Born on the Fourth of July is a film directed by Oliver Stone based on the life of Ronald Kovic (Ron), played by Tom Cruise. It's about a young American from a Catholic family with very patriotic principles and values, Ron's father had fought in World War II. It is important to note that in the film you can see the strong influence of the mother has on the family and especially on Ron.
Ron Kovic volunteered to serve in the Vietnam War and is sent to the battlefront, there he experiences firsthand the horror and cruelty of war. The first thing the young military man observes is the killing of Vietnamese people and the destruction of their humble homes, but he is convinced that this type of thing happens in war and simply refers to carrying out orders from his superior officers.
The film shows very strong and heartbreaking scenes from the war that leave a strong impression on Ron. An important scene, and brilliantly dramatized, is when in a fierce confrontation with a battalion of the Viet Cong (Viet Nam Cong San) Ron Covik is wounded in battle which leaves him with consequences for life.
After the war ends, Ron decides to change his life, convinces himself that the Vietnam War was a serious mistake for his country, and becomes a peace activist. The last scene is when Ron Koviv during a congress in front of thousands of people gives a speech in which he tells his story and how despite everything he managed to forgive and achieve his inner peace.
It is a moving film, which I recommend watching, it is not for very sensitive people since the scenes are strong, sad and heartbreaking that show what war is like, but it also shows how despite suffering and adversity a person can overcome it and live a full life.
I think this is one of Tom Cruise's best movies.