Netflix fans are told they should stream the ‘best war movie ever’ after the release of the new Charlie Sheen documentary.
It is an Oscar-winning ‘classic’, often compared to his father’s own ‘masterpiece’.
The actor finds himself back in the limelight following the publication of his memoir and the Netflix doc, a two-part film, released this week, sees the Two and a Half Men star candidly discussing his tumultuous life and career.
From creating home movies with his brothers and friends, who would also become renowned actors like Sean Penn and George Clooney, to securing his big break in the 1980s and battling addiction – Sheen reveals the peaks and troughs of his life as never before.
He has also expressed that the documentary offers younger viewers an opportunity to understand his career prior to his sitcom fame and involvement in numerous controversies, including his leading role in 1986’s Platoon.
Those interested in watching the film can do so via a subscription to MGM+. It is accessible as an add-on with Prime Video, and users can avail of a 7-day free trial, followed by a monthly fee of £5.99, reports the Mirror.
Sheen portrays Chris Taylor, who abandons his university education to join combat operations in Vietnam in 1967.
Upon arriving in the thick of battle, his romantic notions quickly dissolve.
Internal conflict within his unit erupts between Staff Sergeant Barnes (Tom Berenger), who suspects local villagers of sheltering Viet Cong fighters, and Sergeant Elias (Willem Dafoe), who takes a more compassionate stance towards the residents, ultimately turning the soldiers against one another as well as their enemies.
In Sheen’s documentary, parallels are drawn between his role and one of his father’s iconic performances in Apocalypse Now.
That film was also a war drama centred on the Vietnam conflict.
Sheen even discusses visiting his father during production.
Penned and helmed by Oliver Stone, Platoon secured four Oscars including Best Director and Best Picture.
Apocalypse Now received nominations in identical categories but claimed only the Best Sound and Best Cinematography awards.
Platoon ranks as the second highest-rated Charlie Sheen film on Rotten Tomatoes, achieving 89%. It trails only Being John Malkovich, where Sheen appears as himself.
One Apocalypse Now enthusiast posted online: “Apocalypse Now is an absolute masterpiece that deserves every bit of praise that it has received. From the stunning visuals to the incredible performances, everything about this film is top‐notch.”
One enthusiast, discussing Platoon, remarked: “One of the slightly lesser known classic war films, some would say the definitive Vietnam movie. Oliver Stone’s exploration of the depravity of men in extremity is compelling and unforgettable. A superb cast take us into jungle warfare at its worst. It is a must watch for anyone interested in this genre, or not. Great film.”
Another fan drew a comparison between the two, stating: “Manages to capture the sense madness of things such as conflict. The direction is good, well crafted. It stands up there with Apocalypse Now.”
Yet another viewer echoed a sentiment shared by many, commenting: “Probably the best war movie ever made. It’s a true classic.”
Platoon is streaming on MGM+, available via Prime Video.