"Last Days in Vietnam" tells the story of the Fall of Saigon through the eyes of the people - American and South Vietnamese - who experienced this tragic event. While a couple of these persons are notable figures - Dr. Henry Kissinger and former Deputy Sec. of State Richard Armitage among others - most of the people included in this film are not, and it is their harrowing, heroic, and often heart-wrenching stories that make up the heart of this film. Director Rory Kennedy interweaves these stories within a visually poignant portrait of a nation - and particularly its capital - in its death throes. While the film largely ignores the North Vietnamese perspective, it powerfully depicts American and South Vietnamese stories of compassion, resilience, and courage in the face of overwhelming adversity. But perhaps the most powerful theme that runs throughout this film - and in other documentaries that examine the Fall of Saigon - is betrayal, often personal betrayal. Although America entered Vietnam with a noble determination to promote democracy and stem communism, it exited that country in a painful and humiliating disillusionment with its own purpose in the world.
"Last Days in Vietnam" however ignores much of the preaching and controversy surrounding the Fall of Saigon to tell a more human and personal story. At a time when Americans are once again debating the merits of being the world's policeman, "Last Days in Vietnam" offers a powerful lesson about the costs that come from taking on such a responsibility.
"Last Days in Vietnam" however ignores much of the preaching and controversy surrounding the Fall of Saigon to tell a more human and personal story. At a time when Americans are once again debating the merits of being the world's policeman, "Last Days in Vietnam" offers a powerful lesson about the costs that come from taking on such a responsibility.