
One stereotype was thinly disguised versions of the real Lieutenant William Calley, notorious as the officer responsible for the My Lai massacre of 1968, the so-called "psycho vet" who were portrayed as bloodthirsty psychopaths who wreak havoc upon their return to the United States. There were several broad stereotypes about American Vietnam veterans. These American post-war film representations have generally been more realistic and gritty, such as The Deer Hunter (1978) and Apocalypse Now (1979).

A article noted that American filmmakers "appeared more confident to put Vietnam combat on screen for the first time" during that era.

This article lists notable films related to the Vietnam War.Īfter the Vietnam War ended in 1975, there was an increase in American films that were more "raw", containing actual battle footage.

List of notable films related to the Vietnam War
