The battle scenes are amazing in their scope and vehemence. But in the breaks between fighting, the movie reminds us that the costs of war can exceed the loss of life and limb.

At times the performances seem more akin to the histrionics of old silent movies, when emotions had to be seen because they couldn't be heard.

Although flawed, the film is obviously successful in bringing to life what has been called the 20th century's 'forgotten war.'

It's an epic tale of jealousy, misplaced love and fraternal infighting that often feels closer in tone to Once Upon a Time in America than Platoon.