Meet the Cast of Full Metal Jacket

Released on June 26, 1987
Drama War

"Full Metal Jacket" is a classic war film directed by Stanley Kubrick that follows the transformation of a group of young recruits from boot camp to the battlefield during the Vietnam War. The movie features a number of memorable characters, including the tough-as-nails Gunnery Sergeant Hartman, played by R. Lee Ermey, and the calm and collected Lieutenant Lockhart, portrayed by John Terry.

The first part of the film takes place at the Marine Corps Recruit Depot on Parris Island, where the recruits undergo grueling boot camp training under the watchful eye of Sergeant Hartman. Throughout this training, the recruits are subjected to harsh physical and mental conditioning, designed to turn them into efficient and ruthless killing machines. During this process, the recruits are stripped of their individuality and humanity, and are instead molded into obedient soldiers who are prepared to follow orders without question.

The second part of the film follows the recruits as they are sent to Vietnam, where they are immediately thrown into the chaos and violence of the street fighting in Hue. As the recruits struggle to survive in this brutal and unforgiving environment, they are forced to confront the harsh realities of war and the dehumanizing effects it has on both themselves and their enemies. Through this experience, the recruits must find a way to hold onto their humanity and sense of self, even as they are pushed to the limits of their physical and emotional endurance.

Overall, "Full Metal Jacket" is a powerful and thought-provoking film that offers a unique and unflinching look at the impact of war on the human psyche. With its memorable characters, intense action, and poignant themes, this film is a must-see for any fan of war movies or classic cinema.

Full Cast of Full Metal Jacket

Matthew Modine

as Pvt. Joker

Matthew Modine's portrayal of Pvt. Joker in 'Full Metal Jacket' is a standout performance that perfectly encapsulates the psychological transformation of a soldier during wartime. His character begins as a seemingly naive and detached observer, but as the story progresses, Modine skillfully conveys Joker's internal struggle between maintaining his humanity and succumbing to the brutal realities of war. The complexity and depth of his performance add layers of nuance to the film, making it a compelling exploration of the human condition in the face of unimaginable adversity.

Adam Baldwin

as Animal Mother

Adam Baldwin's portrayal of Animal Mother in 'Full Metal Jacket' is nothing short of memorable. As the tough-as-nails, gun-toting Marine, Baldwin brings a raw intensity and menacing presence to the role. His character, known for his aggressive demeanor and fierce loyalty to his fellow soldiers, is a standout in the film. Baldwin's performance is a testament to his ability to bring depth and complexity to even the most hardened characters, making Animal Mother a fascinating study of the human condition under extreme circumstances.

Vincent D'Onofrio

as Pvt. Pyle

Vincent D'Onofrio's performance as Pvt. Pyle in "Full Metal Jacket" is a standout, often cited as one of the most memorable roles in the film. D'Onofrio gained a significant amount of weight for the role, a physical transformation that underscored the character's struggle with the rigors of military training. His portrayal of Pyle's descent into madness is both chilling and heartbreaking, showcasing D'Onofrio's exceptional acting skills. His performance is a testament to the psychological toll of military training and the human cost of war, making it a powerful and unforgettable part of the film.

R. Lee Ermey

as Gny. Sgt. Hartman

R. Lee Ermey's portrayal of Gny. Sgt. Hartman in 'Full Metal Jacket' is a masterclass in intensity and authenticity. His performance is so convincing that it's hard to believe he wasn't actually a drill instructor. Ermey's ability to deliver lengthy, profanity-laden monologues with such ferocity and precision is truly remarkable. His character's harsh treatment of the recruits, particularly Private Pyle, adds a layer of tension and unease that permeates the entire film. Ermey's performance is not only memorable, but it also serves as a stark reminder of the psychological toll of military training.

Dorian Harewood

as Eightball

In the movie 'Full Metal Jacket', Dorian Harewood delivers a memorable performance as Eightball, a U.S. Marine private in the Vietnam War. Harewood's portrayal is nuanced and layered, capturing the character's struggle to maintain his humanity amidst the brutal realities of war. His performance is marked by a quiet intensity that contrasts with the chaos surrounding him, making Eightball a standout character in an ensemble cast. Harewood's ability to convey complex emotions with subtle gestures and expressions adds depth to the role, making his performance a highlight of the film.

Kevyn Major Howard

as Rafterman

Arliss Howard

as Pvt. Cowboy

Arliss Howard's portrayal of Pvt. Cowboy in 'Full Metal Jacket' is a standout performance that brings a sense of camaraderie and vulnerability to the film. His character serves as a bridge between the harsh reality of boot camp and the brutal horrors of the Vietnam War, as he is one of the few recruits who successfully navigates both environments. Howard's nuanced acting allows the audience to empathize with Cowboy's struggle to maintain his humanity amid the chaos, making his eventual fate all the more heart-wrenching.

Ed O'Ross

as Lt. Touchdown

Ed O'Ross delivers a memorable performance as Lt. Touchdown in Stanley Kubrick's 'Full Metal Jacket'. His portrayal of the hardened, no-nonsense drill instructor is both chilling and captivating. O'Ross brings a raw intensity to the role, embodying the brutal realities of military training. His sharp delivery of dialogue and imposing physical presence make him a standout character in the film, despite his limited screen time. O'Ross's performance adds a layer of authenticity to the film, making the harsh world of 'Full Metal Jacket' even more believable.

John Terry

as Lt. Lockhart

John Terry delivers a compelling performance as Lt. Lockhart in Stanley Kubrick's 'Full Metal Jacket'. Terry's portrayal of the seasoned officer is both authoritative and empathetic, capturing the complexities of a man tasked with leading young Marines through the brutal realities of war. His interactions with the protagonist, Joker, played by Matthew Modine, are particularly noteworthy, as they highlight the moral ambiguities and harsh truths of the Vietnam War. Terry's performance is a testament to his talent and adds depth to the overall narrative of the film.

Kieron Jecchinis

as Crazy Earl

Kieron Jecchinis delivers a memorable performance as Crazy Earl in Stanley Kubrick's "Full Metal Jacket." His portrayal of the eccentric, unhinged soldier is both chilling and captivating. Jecchinis's ability to convey Earl's unpredictable nature and instability adds a layer of tension to the film, making his scenes particularly gripping. His performance is a testament to his acting skills and his contribution to the movie's overall impact.

Ian Tyler

as Lt. Cleves

Sal Lopez

as T.H.E. Rock

Sal Lopez's portrayal of T.H.E. Rock in "Full Metal Jacket" is a standout performance that adds depth to the ensemble cast. As a member of the Lusthog Squad, Lopez brings a sense of camaraderie and authenticity to the role, showcasing the bonds formed between soldiers in the midst of war. His character's nickname, T.H.E. Rock, is a testament to his unwavering strength and resilience, making him a memorable presence in the film. Lopez's performance is a subtle yet powerful reminder of the human stories that lie beneath the surface of war narratives.

Gary Landon Mills

as Donlon

Papillon Soo

as Da Nang Hooker

Peter Edmund

as Snowball

Ngoc Le

as V.C. Sniper

Leanne Hong

as Motorbike Hooker

Tan Hung Francione

as ARVN Pimp

Marcus D'Amico

as Hand Job

Costas Dino Chimona

as Chili

Gil Kopel

as Stork

Keith Hodiak

as Daddy DA

Peter Merrill

as TV Journalist

Herbert Norville

as Daytona Dave

Nguyen Hue Phong

as Camera Thief