"The first real casualty of war is innocence (Platoon 1986)." Although this may seem to be the most imperative casualty, there are far worse fatalities in battle. Perhaps, with suffering there can be a positive outcome that can improve a person's mind and soul. In viewing these two war films, Platoon (1986) and The Sands of Iwo Jima (1949), I have analyzed the similarities, differences, and the types of images these films have brought to the screen.
One such comparison between Platoon and The Sands of Iwo Jima is the harsh realization of one's innocence. These soldiers had to lose their innocence in order to survive the chaotic world of battle. For example, a quote from Sergeant John M. Stryker (John Wayne) educates his new recruits
by saying, "Before I'm through with ya you're going to move like one man and think like one man, if ya don't you'll be dead." Although Stryker is disliked by his men for his unsympathetic training methods, his wisdom is demonstrated through his squad while fighting on the island of Iwo Jima. …
