

#1511 - Oliver Stone
Jul 21, 2020
Oliver Stone, the award-winning director and author of "Chasing the Light," shares insights from his transformative journey in filmmaking. He reflects on the authenticity of war films, particularly his own work on 'Platoon,' contrasting it with Hollywood's glamorized portrayals. The conversation dives into controversial historical narratives, such as the JFK assassination and the implications of U.S. actions in Afghanistan. Stone's candid reflections on patriotism, the drug war, and the moral dilemmas of storytelling highlight the intersection of art and politics.
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Stone's Vietnam Hilltop Experience
- Oliver Stone describes being stuck on a hilltop in Vietnam for 11 days due to rain.
- He vividly recalls the leeches, constant tension, and fear of the enemy closing in.
Combat Experience and Filmmaking
- Stone's combat experience significantly influenced his directing, particularly in portraying realistic combat scenarios.
- He criticizes the over-the-top action and unrealistic portrayal of death in many war films.
Platoon's Real-Life Inspirations
- Stone based characters in Platoon on real individuals, including Sergeant Barnes and Sergeant Elias.
- He combined elements from different units he served in to create the film's platoon.