Shinya Tsukamoto's 'Mr. Nelson, Did You Kill People?' Misses the Mark on Vietnam War Depiction

In his latest directorial endeavor, Shinya Tsukamoto attempts to tackle the complex narrative of a Black American soldier in Vietnam through the film 'Mr. Nelson, Did You Kill People?'. However, the film struggles with execution, resulting in a disjointed portrayal that often feels more like an awkward stage play than a cinematic exploration of war.

The film opens with Allen Nelson, depicted as a young adult by Mark Merphy, in a grim setting surrounded by trash and scavenging animals. This initial scene sets a tone that feels overly contrived, reminiscent of amateur filmmaking. When Nelson is later invited by a former friend to speak about his wartime experiences, the narrative takes a leap into the past, revealing a complex structure that fails to land effectively. The dialogue throughout the film is marked by an unnatural stiltedness, making it hard for viewers to connect with the characters or their emotional journeys.

As the adult Nelson, played by Rodney Hicks, recounts his experiences to psychiatrist Dr. Daniels (Geoffrey Rush), the film attempts to grapple with deep questions about morality and the psychological toll of war. However, the repetitive nature of their exchanges and the lack of genuine emotional depth undermines the film's intentions. Each session feels like a missed opportunity to explore the profound impact of war on identity and race, leaving viewers with more questions than answers.

Despite the film's ambition to present a raw perspective on wartime brutality, Tsukamoto's vision often veers into chaos. The sensory overload, coupled with a lack of coherence, makes it challenging to engage with the narrative meaningfully. While the film's approach to cultural themes is commendable, it ultimately falls short, resulting in a portrayal that feels disconnected from the lived experiences it aims to depict. 'Mr. Nelson, Did You Kill People?' stands as a perplexing entry in the discourse on war and race, lacking the necessary depth to resonate with its audience.

Source: www.indiewire.com