Vietnam: The War That Changed America

Watched this series and it brought back many memories. I was there in March 1975 in Vung Tau. Say what you want about the US involvement in Vietnam. We really had no business being involved as we were. We did not take our lessons from the French. But that aside, I followed my orders (Navy) and served the best I could. Been up and down the Vietnamese coast and up rivers. There has been at least one good series about the Vietnamese War before this one. This current one brought more personal aspects with people who were there and 50 years later. Loved both sides (VC and S. Vietnamese) interviews. Both did what they believed was honorable. Well worth watching. Thanks producers. They're correct in that the Vietnam War still impacts us these many years later.

"Vietnam: The War That Changed America" is a profound documentary that delves into the human stories behind the Vietnam War. Narrated by Ethan Hawke, it combines raw archival footage with personal accounts from soldiers, nurses, and Vietnamese civilians, creating an intimate and immersive experience. The filmmakers avoid sensationalism, focusing instead on authentic storytelling that captures the emotional and historical impact of the war. This approach ensures a fresh and engaging narrative throughout, making it a standout in the genre.

In contrast, many Netflix documentaries often fall into the trap of being overly dramatic and campy, prioritizing runtime over substance. They tend to stretch content thin, adding unnecessary filler to meet episode quotas. Apple TV+, however, takes a different approach by focusing on high-quality content that respects the viewer's time. Their documentaries are concise, well-researched, and avoid the pitfalls of campiness, offering a more genuine and impactful viewing experience. This commitment to quality over quantity sets Apple apart in the competitive streaming landscape.

Amazing. Includes home movie super eight video taken by pilots actually in the cockpit telling their story, and great video footage taken by journalists that were embedded on the ground in the offensive and the Mekong Delta just amazing stuff. I cannot recall a war documentary where the voice over which in this case is Ethan Hawk, describes the footage that you are seeing, and then cuts to the actual members of our Armed Forces that are captured in the video, who came home to tell their story just truly amazing no matter how old you are it's a great watch I highly recommend it you absolutely have to get through the second episode make sure you do.

From the moment the trailer begins, it is clear that Vietnam: The War That Changed America is more than just an historical account-it's an emotional exploration of the war's human cost. Featuring never-before-seen archival footage and deeply personal testimonies, the series provides a nuanced portrait of the soldiers, civilians, and activists who experienced the war firsthand. The inclusion of long-awaited reunions between former soldiers, as well as perspectives from both American and Vietnamese individuals, adds an element of reconciliation and raw authenticity rarely seen in war documentaries.

Apple TV+'s compelling documentary Vietnam: The War That Changed America is a gripping six-part series, narrated by Academy Award nominee Ethan Hawke, that marks the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon, offering an unfiltered look at one of the most divisive conflicts in American history.

One of the documentary's greatest strengths is its wide array of voices. From Bill Broyles, a former Marine turned Hollywood screenwriter, to Hilary Brown, ABC News' first female foreign correspondent, and Melvin Pender, an Olympic gold medalist who served between deployments, the series provides a multifaceted look at the war's impact. Even more striking are the perspectives of Viet Cong fighters and Vietnamese civilians, offering a crucial counterpoint to the American narrative. These voices help construct a more complete and deeply humanized understanding of the conflict. Director Rob Coldstream and producer Caroline Marsden craft the series with a level of detail and sensitivity that elevates it beyond a simple historical retelling. The visuals, drawn from over 1,100 hours of archival footage, immerse viewers in the reality of war, while Ethan Hawke's narration provides a steady, reflective tone that balances the intensity of the material. What makes Vietnam: The War That Changed America truly stand out is its ability to connect past and present. The war left scars not only on those who fought but on the entire American political and cultural landscape.

This series really shows how the Vietnam War reshaped the United States in ways still felt today, from attitudes toward military intervention to the power of protest movements. For history enthusiasts, war documentary fans, or anyone seeking a deeply human look at one of the most defining conflicts of the 20th century, Vietnam: The War That Changed America is essential viewing.

I give Vietnam: The War That Changed America 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. It premieres on Apple TV+ on January 31, 2025. By Ashleigh C., KIDS FIRST!

Is the failure to mention the criminal, corrupt & venal CHENNAULT AFFAIR, which extended the war by years & cost thousands of unnecessary American lives for political purposes. . Nixon & Kissinger should have tried & died in prison. Otherwise, a balanced presentation. Particularly the view from the North. Having served late in the war & living through the riots, the protests, the war, & the end, I liked this series. I regret much in life, but I'm proud of my service to the nation: not the war, but the comradere & protection of my fellow soldiers. The war shaped me...and scared me. But at least I came home.