The Deer Hunter is one of those rare movies that mimic the best and worst of mankind. It highlights this paradox: Man can be at his best when mankind is at its worst. Every second of this film is important, including the wedding scene (It’s more of a celebration of 3 men off to war.) The movie is full of symbols, both subtle and overt, that tie this 3 hour movie into a single knot of cinema brilliance. The first time I saw it (on video tape) I watched it again immdediately, and then again the next morning. It’s one of those rare perfect movies that one can watch 5 or 6 times a year and still be awestruck. The actors are perfect, the script is perfect, the rise and fall of the characters is complete. Every character in this film is essential: each contributing to the film’s theme. Back when it was released it was relevant, it is still relevant now–perhaps even more so.