1969

I Very much enjoyed this movie as i have always been fascinated with the 60's/70's period especially in america, so with a great cast & soundtrack this film really does deliver. Also any chance to watch downey jr on screen is an added bonus for me.

The story is centered around two best friends coming of age amongst the backdrop of vietnam, drugs and the power movement.

'Sutherland' plays scott, a sensitive soul who writes poetry and refuses to be any part of a war that does not belong to america. 'Downey' is the reckless, fun loving ralph who wants to experiment with everything youth has to offer and almost dies because of it.

There is a wonderful supporting cast in 'Ryder' who plays 'Downeys' young sister beth and later 'Sutherlands' love interest. Also 'Joanna Cassidy's wardrobe is fantastic and she really looks the part as the fashionable single mom.

The part that really stuck out for me, was the car scene where 'Beth and Scott' are driving past the troops on their way to vietnam and she gives them the peace-sign. Some make rude gestures back but mostly all of the soldiers return the symbol. I just think it is a really beautiful and powerful scene, that shows the general optimism of the young men going to war but also the paranoia and the heartbreak of america at that time.