“Da 5 Bloods” Review by Stephanie Chapman : Pop Culture Leftovers

“Da 5 Bloods” Review by Stephanie Chapman

July 26, 2020 3:11 pm |

Four African American vets battle the forces of man and nature when they return to Vietnam seeking the remains of their fallen squad leader and the gold fortune he helped them hide.

Once in a while you see a movie that pulls at every emotion you have (and some you didn’t know were there). Spike Lee’s latest film does that and so much more. Available on Netflix, “Da 5 Bloods” is a story about 5 black Vietnam veterans who travel back to Vietnam to locate the body of a fallen soldier and find a treasure they buried during the war. Humor and violence ensue and thus begins a rollercoaster ride of emotion and action, embedded in a history many still don’t know much about.

War can be different for soldiers who feel like they are fighting for a country that doesn’t always fight for them. These characters bonded over shared experiences and trauma that war often brings. These veterans have a connection between them that has stood the test of time and the continued strain they go through during this film will leave you longing for more of a story that has just the right amount of twists and turns.

The real star of this film is “Paul” (played by Delroy Lindo) whose emotions, frustrations and regrets are palatable throughout the entire film. His tough demeanor masks a man who holds pain, suffering and trauma in his heart. His stubbornness and dedication to their mission is only dwarfed by the trouble they find themselves in mid-way through the film.

The group is rounded out by a stellar cast who all bring their “A” game and create a ensemble that brings this vibrant and emotional film to life. “David” (played by Jonathan Majors), “Otis” (played by Clarke Peters), “Eddie” (played by Norm Lewis), and “Melvin” (played by Isiah Whitlock Jr.) all bring a unique personality to this group. The characters feed off of each other so well as a viewer you often times feel the stress of their situation as though you were part of the story.

I highly recommend this film. It is not just for fans of Spike Lee. This film is for anyone who appreciates a great story with heart, humor and purpose, with some history mixed in. You won’t regret it.

PCL Rating: Tupperware

Rotten Tomatoes Rating: FRESH 🍅