As an elegy for Burt Lancaster, its a five star classic. He really makes the most of every second he has on screen, relishing the salty language, the understated regrets, and generally saying goodbye to the role of lover, warrior, and tough guy. The story telling is poignant, and the young cast of unknowns really works together well.
On the other hand, the low budget is really obvious, especially towards the end. All the soldiers have late Seventies hair cuts, which is strange since the movie is set in 1964. Even the super tough Vietnamese mercenary is obviously trying to look like Bruce Lee, which is strange because in 1964 he was still doing stunt work and wearing a chauffeur's cap on the Green Hornet.
On the other hand, the low budget is really obvious, especially towards the end. All the soldiers have late Seventies hair cuts, which is strange since the movie is set in 1964. Even the super tough Vietnamese mercenary is obviously trying to look like Bruce Lee, which is strange because in 1964 he was still doing stunt work and wearing a chauffeur's cap on the Green Hornet.