Is the movie “Apocalypse Now” true to the book “Heart of Darkness?
Coppola’s film is similar to the book, and there are some good and valid representations that are reflected in both. Yet, I think for an even striking example of Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness,” I strongly suggest viewing the documentary, “Hearts of Darkness: A Filmmaker’s Apocalypse.” It powerfully shows how Coppola, himself, became similar to Kurtz, Marlowe, and perhaps, Conrad, himself. If you are looking for a vision of rationality gone into a world of depravity, I think this documentary about the making of the film would be perfect. I found the documentary closer to the book than the film even was.
