Guest Blogger: Kadri P2

One character-driven movie that particularly appeals to me is Jarhead. A Jarhead is referred to as a United States Marine because of their cut hair that remains constant with a marine which symbolizes a jar and the head which of course symbolizes the head of the marine. This movie takes place during Operation Desert Storm which was during the war on Iraq. It explains the story of Tony Swofford, the main character, and his journey through the hellish desert and the harsh realities that are faced day-to-day with being a Jarhead. Enduing things such a hot desert sun, missing family members, and knowing you could die any day at any time. One of the characters in the film that I mention earlier is Tony Swofford and his part is played by Jake Gyllenhaal. Jake Gyllenhaal is an amazing actor and has shot in previous award winning movies such as October Sky and The Day After Tomorrow. Other characters in the film include Troy, played by Peter Sarsgaard, and Staff Sgt. Sykes, played by Jamie Foxx. Troy is an important character in the film because he is Swofford’s “spotter”, and aids him in shooting the target when sniping. Troy becomes a very important character throughout the movie and is later revealed with a dark secret that has haunted him for many years. Staff Sgt. Sykes is an important character because he’s the leader of Swofford and Troy’s group and helps get them through the hellish things they endure throughout the movie and plays the leader figure. The primary theme in this movie to me is to learn that things aren’t always as they are perceived in life. For example, people see war as just a fight, but really don’t know the harsh realities of war beyond the fighting and killing that goes on. Roger Ebert argues that this movie is “lacking”, but I would have to disagree with his critic for this movie is one of the best character driven movies and emotional movies I have ever seen. Overall I would give this movie a five out of five, it is definitely worth full price buying. This movie will give you a whole new understand on the harsh realities of war and at the same time provide a good character-driven movie.