The basic story is that Colonel Kurtz (Marlon Brando), who was sent to Vietnam (60's era) to correct a problem, now sees the problem differently and has exceeded his authority in the correction. Therefore Captain Benjamin L. Willard (Martin Sheen) is dispatched to dispatch the colonel. In this Joseph Campbell ("The Hero with a Thousand Faces") type adventure, he meets with many situations that help him grow and understand the problem that Colonel Kurtz faced. Will he complete his mission or succumb to the same forces as the colonel in the heart of darkness?

The Redux version should have been the version to begin with as it explains why certain things appear out of nowhere and why the people have such attitudes towards each other. There was no fluff to cut out as it is the crucial ideas behind the whole story that was cut out. The Redux version replaces much of the mystery with purpose and is intriguing itself as the story or mission progresses.

I purchased both versions and must say it is worth the price. I only hope I do not find a third version with a missing hour.


This is basically an updated version of Joseph Conrad's book "Heart of Darkness" with a lot Francis Ford Coppola thrown in. The location is Viet Nam, instead of Africa, and as with any update; they thought it would be more relevant than trying to explain the Congo. Toss in some songs from the 60's era ("The Best of the Doors"- `The End'), and some classics (Wagner - "Die Walkure: Ride of the Valkyries"), and you have a movie. Too bad it is not that easy.