Platoon

Film Release Year: 1987
Record Label: Atlantic Records
Barcode: 075678174223 
Country of Origin: Europe
Product Type: CD (Pre-owned)
Score or Soundtrack: Soundtrack

Platoon is a 1986 war drama film written and directed by Oliver Stone. The movie, which won the Academy Award for Best Picture, is a harrowing and realistic portrayal of the Vietnam War, seen through the eyes of a young soldier, Chris Taylor, played by Charlie Sheen. Stone, himself a Vietnam veteran, draws on his personal experiences to deliver a visceral and intense depiction of the chaos and moral ambiguity of war. The film explores the psychological and ethical challenges faced by soldiers, particularly through the contrasting leadership styles of two sergeants, the compassionate Elias (Willem Dafoe) and the ruthless Barnes (Tom Berenger). Platoon is notable for its raw and unflinching portrayal of combat, the internal conflicts among soldiers, and the devastating effects of war on the human psyche.

The soundtrack of Platoon is both haunting and evocative, perfectly complementing the film's intense narrative. It features a blend of classical music, original score, and popular songs from the era. One of the most memorable pieces is Samuel Barber's "Adagio for Strings," which serves as the film's main theme, underscoring moments of profound tragedy and reflection. The soundtrack also includes period-specific tracks like "White Rabbit" by Jefferson Airplane and "(Sittin' On) The Dock of the Bay" by Otis Redding, which help to situate the film within its historical context. The music in Platoon not only enhances the emotional depth of the scenes but also reflects the cultural backdrop of the 1960s, adding another layer of realism to the story. The combination of classical and contemporary music in the soundtrack provides a poignant contrast, amplifying the film's themes of innocence lost and the horrors of war.

Track Listing

The Village
Platoon Soundtrack

Tracks of My Tears
Smokey Robinson and the Miracles

Okie from Muskogee
Merle Haggard

Hello, I Love You
The Doors

White Rabbit
Jefferson Airplane

Barnes Shoots Elias
Platoon Soundtrack

Respect
Aretha Franklin

(Sittin' On) the Dock of the Bay
Otis Redding

When a Man Loves a Woman
Percy Sledge

Groovin' (Single Version)
The Young Rascals

Adagio for Strings
(LP / Charlie Sheen Dialogue Version)

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