28 Jun Book Review of Chasing The Light: Writing, Directing, and Surviving Pl…
Review of Chasing The Light: Writing, Directing, and Surviving Platoon by Oliver Stone
When I picked up Chasing The Light by Oliver Stone, I wasn’t just reading the memoir of a filmmaker; I was revisiting a pivotal chapter of my own life. Like many aspiring creatives, I found my passion during my college years, where film became more than just entertainment—it transformed into a lens through which I could explore my dreams and fears. Stone’s journey mirrors my own awakening, filled with those raw, cinematic moments that leave indelible marks on our souls.
The book serves as a heartfelt chronicle of Stone’s early years, taking readers through the labyrinth of his youth shaped by family dynamics, the rigors of military life, and the intoxicating allure of storytelling. The way he crafts his narrative pulls you in, honestly recounting the struggles and triumphs that defined his artistic identity. You can almost feel the weight of his experiences as he articulates the pain of war and the elation of triumph, culminating poignantly at the Oscars, where Platoon solidified its place in cinematic history.
One of the book’s great strengths is its unpretentious tone. Stone doesn’t spin tales of grandeur or self-aggrandizement; rather, he invites readers in with a sense of humility, recounting moments that shaped him without glossing over the messiness of life. The pacing flows naturally, with each chapter feeling like a meditation on a particular phase of his journey. It feels as if Stone is sitting across from you, sharing his story over a cup of coffee, blending honesty with introspection.
What truly struck a chord with me were his reflections on films that shaped his world—and as I read about his reaction to works like She’s Gotta Have It and Blue Velvet, I couldn’t help but remember my own emotional responses to these films. He writes, “The most crucial film that year was Platoon. Which didn’t sour me on the military, but exposed how things could go awry in the field.” This resonated deeply; it encapsulates the paradox of love and disillusionment—a theme that threads through both Stone’s work and my own understanding of growth.
While the memoir racetracks through Stone’s early career, I found immense joy in the hope it evokes. Just as Bob Dylan resurfaced as a powerhouse with Time Out of Mind, there’s a flicker of hope that Stone might yet return to his filmmaking roots. But even if that day never comes, as he humbly concludes, this book reaffirms the man I once admired.
If you’re a fellow cinephile, an aspiring storyteller, or someone who’s simply searching for authenticity in a world often bloated with bravado, Chasing The Light is a treasure. It’s a reminder that behind every great film is a person wrestling with their demons and dreams. Reading this book was a comforting experience—like reconnecting with an old friend who, against all odds, still feels like home.
In the end, Stone invites us to share his past, and in doing so, he inspires us to chase our own lights—wherever they may lead.
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