Using relatively unknown actors, first-time screenwriter-
director Preston A. Whitmore II examines the effects of the
Vietnam War on four black Marines sent on a doomed prisoner-of-
war rescue mission. The four men are what's left of a platoon
that's been decimated after landing behind enemy lines. In
charge is Sergeant Barkley (Joe Morton), a no-nonsense, Bible-
quoting preacher who is leading three privates to find a POW
camp in an abandoned temple. Cole Evans (Allen Payne) is an
intellectual who is highly political, racially proud, and a
devoted family man. Joe Brooks (Vonte Sweet) is a cheerful,
naïve, and brave young soldier. Hoover Branche (Eddie Griffin)
is a dope-smoking, foul-mouthed rebel who hates the war and
fights the sergeant constantly. They eventually are joined by a
crazy, bloodthirsty white soldier, Pippins (Roger Floyd).
Flashbacks reveal why each character joined the Marines. Pippins
entered the recruiting office to escape rival gang members who
were trying to kill him. Brooks enlisted to imp