Full metal jacket quote?

Question

i dont get the part where the guy sais "Is that you john wayne?" "is this me?"... what the heck does this come from? is it from a john wayne movie or something

Answer 1

FMJ explored identity and its problematic nature and the limits of free will. Focusing on young men whose identities are ripped down and rebuilt as fighting machines. It is a reference to John Wayne's often heroic characters in his various war movies.

In FMJ, Joker is taunted by the other Marines for his lack of combat experience. He often quotes John Wayne .. and is asked - "You talk the talk, but can you walk the walk" - its not enough in war to invoke the myth and legend that is John Wayne, to play a hero. You have to do more than imitate what you see in the movies.

In the book, it is actually Cowboy who asks Joker, "Is that you John Wayne? Is this me?" - it is a reference to their identity in war. Who are they? Are they the myths they see on the big screen? Are they Marines? And as Marines, are they even themselves anymore?

I think it can lose a little meaning in the movie having Joker say it instead of Cowboy ... but it means the same. Who am I? What have I become? Have I lost my identity in this war, a part of this machine that is running out of control?