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Jacknife
1989 102 min United States of America R 16+
★6.6
Drama, War
Director: David Hugh Jones
Trailers
Description
A conflict develops between a troubled Vietnam veteran and the sister he lives with when she becomes involved romantically with the army buddy who reminds him of the tragic battle they both survived.
US Gross:
$2.05M
Starring
Robert De Niro
Actor
Kathy Baker
Actor
Ed Harris
Actor
Awards
Golden Globe 1990
— Best Supporting Actor
Key opinion
Jacknife is a poignant, character-driven drama that explores the lingering psychological scars of Vietnam veterans through intimate performances. While its theatrical origins and dialogue-heavy approach limit its momentum, it remains a resonant, emotionally heavy exploration of post-war survival.
| Acting | Robert De Niro and Ed Harris deliver powerful, anchors-of-the-film performances that ground the narrative's psychological intensity. | |
| Emotion | The film succeeds as a thoughtful and emotionally resonant portrayal of the isolating, long-term legacy of war on the individual. | |
| Adaptation | The narrative benefits from a skillful adaptation of its source material, focusing on human connections rather than political commentary. | |
| Pacing | The sedate, dialogue-heavy pace is praised by some for fostering intimacy, while others find the film's slow momentum an exhausting or limiting experience. |