Sunday, February 7, 2010


The psychological harm done to the soldiers during the war and boot camp is astounding. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder defines a quarter of Iraqi War veterans; however, PTSD did not exist for Vietnam veterans. Private Pyle struggled with deep psychological issues, largely associated with the effects of boot camp. On the other hand, Private Joker dealt with different psychological issues, not so much dealing with a psychological issue himself, but pointing out and characterizing some issues—the duality of man. Joker’s first line in Full Metal Jacket: “Is that you John Wayne? Is this me?" Not only does this provide the audience with comedic relief, it sets the tone of the movie early on—one can be John Wayne, or whomever, and someone else at the same time. This line goes against the maxim used by Hartman: repurposing the young men’s identity serves to eliminate any forethought that one may have of a previous life. Characterized by “Born to Kill” on his helmet and a peace button on his vest, Private Joker epitomizes the crux of the psychological issues and directly addresses them in the movie. Joker does not accept his duality initially. He practically raises Pyle to become a Marine and then beats him the hardest out of anyone with the soap; yet, Joker covers his ears to muffle the sound of Pyle’s screams. His complete disregard for the other half of himself is astounding. It doesn’t appear as though he is aware that he is personifying the duality of man.

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