Watch Don't Cry, It's Only Thunder
- PG
- 1982
- 1 hr 48 min
-
6.7 (255)
Don't Cry, It's Only Thunder is a drama movie released in 1982 and directed by Peter Werner. The story revolves around a young boy named Brian Anderson who spends most of his life in orphanages and foster homes due to his parents' passing away. He is eventually placed with a retired political activist named Maureen Mackenzie, who lives in Southeast Asia and is known for her efforts to help the local villagers.
As Brian adjusts to his new way of life and befriends the other children in the village, he begins to uncover the harsh realities of the Vietnam War. His mentor, Maureen, is constantly working to provide medical aid to those in need, but she must also navigate through the dangers of being in a war-torn country. While Brian and Maureen work to make a positive difference in the community, they are faced with obstacles that threaten to tear them apart.
As the war rages on, Brian becomes more involved in the conflict and learns firsthand the brutalities of war. He befriends local children who are victims of the war, and he eventually realizes that he has a responsibility to use his privilege to help them. Meanwhile, Maureen's past catches up with her as she becomes a target for individuals seeking revenge for her past political activism.
The movie explores themes of war, activism, and the humanitarian crisis that grew out of the Vietnam War. It offers a unique perspective on the conflict from the point of view of an outsider who becomes immersed in the cultural and historical context of the region. The film also provides a poignant commentary on the effects of war on innocent civilians and explores the role of activists in pushing for change.
Dennis Christopher plays the lead role of Brian, a talented young actor who delivers a believable portrayal of a child struggling to navigate through the complexities of war-torn Southeast Asia. Susan Saint James shines as Maureen Mackenzie, who brings a level of nuance and depth to her character, showcasing the dedication of those who devote their lives to humanitarian efforts in the midst of conflict. Roger Aaron Brown delivers a solid performance as Brian's mentor and soldier-hopeful, Sergeant Jim.
Overall, Don't Cry, It's Only Thunder is a thought-provoking and emotional film that explores the often-overlooked human cost of war. It is a compelling tale of courage and compassion, showcasing how people from different cultures can come together to make a difference in the face of adversity. The movie is worthy of being remembered as one of the underrated portrayals of the Vietnam War on film.