What ONE incorrectly depicted thing pisses you off most about military movies?

2014-10-13T00:04:49-04:00

My question is really no more complicated than that.

For me, it is the rendering of the salute. Hands down. No second place. This pisses me off to no end!

In my opinion, this is THE most important of all military courtesies, and it should always be given with the most possible precision and exacting attention to detail.

FFS! It is something that is taught to every 'cruit in week 1 of basic training! It is perfected throughout training! In a military movie, this should be the EASIEST thing to get right!

It seems to me, that if an actor or actress can spend weeks or months learning hundreds, if not thousands of lines of dialog for a movie, they can at least spend an afternoon or a day, practicing with the advisor (there is ALWAYS an advisor who is a Vet or SM) on the set until they get it right.

I know there are bigger, or more obvious problems with some military movies. Weapons or uniforms or lingo that is anachronistic to the time period of the battle on screen...but DAMMIT, getting the salute wrong in any time period just frosts my shorts!

Usually, it's a fail with what I call the, "I'm shading my eyes from the sun" salute. Your f'n hand doesn't belong on your forehead like you're trying to watch the right fielder shag the fly ball! It belongs where you were TAUGHT to place it!

I find myself commenting out loud to friends, while watching movies that jack this up...they don't seem to understand why it pisses me off so much.

What does it for you?

Response by PO3 Shaun Taylor made Oct 13 at 2014 12:22 AM

2014-10-13T00:22:02-04:00

The way they portray people disrespecting the nco's and officers without any consequences.

Response by CPT Karen Nichols McAbee made Oct 13 at 2014 3:09 PM

2014-10-13T15:09:27-04:00

OMG, I'm with you!! Proper salutes are a HUGE pet peeve of mine - I will literally scream at the TV screen when salutes look like crap. What drives me off the deep end is when people who have actually served can't get it right - case in point, Randy Couture on Dancing with the Stars - he did a routine with a USO theme - he was in the 60's era khaki uniform - kudos to him for wearing only the rank he had earned, but he finished the dance routine, he did the WORST salute! I swear his hand was all the way over his LEFT eye. Seriously??? He actually served in the Army - he should know better!

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Oct 13 at 2014 6:45 PM

2014-10-13T18:45:22-04:00

The uniform discrepancies like when medals & ribbons are out of order or brass is on wrong, etc.

Response by COL Vincent Stoneking made Oct 13 at 2014 6:56 PM

2014-10-13T18:56:04-04:00

Two things:
1. When the spoken rank doesn't align to actual rank. i.e. The "general" is wearing MAJ rank...
2. Causally ignoring the chain of command. i.e. the SFC TELLING the CPT what to do (as opposed to "strongly advising..").

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 9:02 PM

2014-10-13T21:02:27-04:00

Rambo firing a M72 LAW while piloting a Huey through the front window while those he rescued sit behind him.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 13 at 2014 9:55 PM

2014-10-13T21:55:17-04:00

The Hurtlocker

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 3:00 AM

2014-10-14T03:00:03-04:00

This may not be what you were looking for with your question but for me it's the "crazy veteran" character you often see. They're always one loud noise away from flying off the handle and shooting people. It just perpetuates the myth in society that veterans are victims (some absolutely are) to be pitied for having been overseas.

Example: The retired Marine in True Blood. He's the only major character representing the military and he's crazy.

Response by SFC Vernon McNabb made Oct 14 at 2014 8:11 AM

2014-10-14T08:11:11-04:00

For those responding with "uniform discrepancies" there is a reason. Most times, Hollywood will not hire a military advisor to assist with the making of their film. They assume that Wardrobe will do their own research. Assumptions are a dangerous thing sometimes. Hollywood goes with what looks right to them, not what looks right to those of us who serve.

Response by MAJ Christopher Daily made Oct 14 at 2014 9:03 AM

2014-10-14T09:03:13-04:00

"Over and out." That is all I need to say.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 9:10 AM

2014-10-14T09:10:06-04:00

The wear of covers indoors always kills me.

Response by SGT Richard H. made Oct 14 at 2014 9:36 AM

2014-10-14T09:36:26-04:00

It drives me nuts when an Infantry squad/team walks up a ridge line so they can get that neat Hollywood shot of them skylined against a sunset or something.

Rule #1. DON'T SKYLINE!

Response by COL Jean (John) F. B. made Oct 14 at 2014 9:45 AM

2014-10-14T09:45:46-04:00

Military uniform discrepancies bother me the most. Even without paid military consultants, the producers could at least make a little effort to have someone look at the appropriate regulation.

Saluting, disrespect, personal use of government vehicles/property, tyrant officers and NCOs, hair cuts, excessive make-up on women, etc., etc.... My wife keeps reminding me that it is just a movie, but it still bugs the crap out of me.

Response by CPO Jon Campbell made Oct 14 at 2014 9:49 AM

2014-10-14T09:49:51-04:00

Long hair. I don't think movie stars like to get their hair cut to military standards.

Response by PO1 John Y. made Oct 14 at 2014 12:17 PM

2014-10-14T12:17:35-04:00

I agree with all of the above, with improper saluting being at the top of the list. But the one gross mistake in a single movie that tried to be real is in "Crimson Tide". A CO or anyone else would have a dog on submarine, let alone allowing them to piss on a missile tube. The one time I saw a dog on my sub was when we were in dry dock and we had a bomb threat. The dog toured the boat sniffing for a bomb (never to be found). A question for you boomer sailors, did you guys have vests and Kevlar helmets on board? Because that would be the second gross error.

Response by Cpl Dennis F. made Oct 14 at 2014 1:40 PM

2014-10-14T13:40:08-04:00

The bottomless magazine....or.....artillery round hand grenade. Take your pick.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 3:26 PM

2014-10-14T15:26:57-04:00

My wife tells me shut up every time when I see ribbons and badges out of order and out of place on dress blues and ACUs

Response by MCPO Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 14 at 2014 4:44 PM

2014-10-14T16:44:49-04:00

John, I have to disagree with your pet peeve - or at least question it.

How many folks that are IN the service - with MULTIPLE ENLISTMENTS - do you see that can't/don't/won't salute properly? Now THAT'S a pet peeve!

For movies, I have to say that I'm torn between hair and ribbons/medals.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2014 1:33 AM

2014-10-15T01:33:58-04:00

I use to enjoy the show "JAG", but they always seem to represent enlisted as idiots. The same can be said for crimson tide, battleship, last resort, and last ship. One of the best representation of actual enlisted officer relationships would be Generation Kill.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 15 at 2014 1:46 AM

2014-10-15T01:46:27-04:00

As for uniform discrepancies. I heard in conversation once that Hollywood is not allowed to completely replicate actual current uniform. So the jacked up ribbons and insignia may be by design.

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2014 3:03 AM

2014-10-16T03:03:52-04:00

I can deal with the uniform discrepancies, I just hate the unrealistic battle scenes. I love that anytime a good guy gets shot they are able to continue the fight and bring it to the enemy, but if they hit the enemy in the came place, then that guy drops immediately, I know it shows American Bravado and so on, but come on.

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2014 6:33 PM

2014-10-16T18:33:54-04:00

Weapons discipline or lack there-of and the never need to reload magazines.

Response by MSgt John McDowell made Oct 16 at 2014 6:37 PM

2014-10-16T18:37:45-04:00

Casting out of shape fat asses in uniform.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 16 at 2014 9:39 PM

2014-10-16T21:39:13-04:00

For me, it's the hair. They go into these movies, say hoah things and do hoah things, but the hair takes all the real out of it. No soldier would look like any of the actors that portray them...

Response by 1stSgt Jack St. Onge made Oct 17 at 2014 12:26 AM

2014-10-17T00:26:18-04:00

Grooming standards. How many military movies have you seen with guys with out of regs hair cuts or facial hair...drives me nuts. And it drives my wife nuts listening to me bitch about it.

Response by SrA Jonathan Atwood made Oct 17 at 2014 1:48 AM

2014-10-17T01:48:51-04:00

I take it no one has seen Battleship?! LoL

But the "best" one was from Armageddon, when the scientist dude was trying to sabotage the satellite uplink to delay setting of the nuke....it was the USAF SP that didn't just tell him to step away from the console, he THEN sat down and proceed to reconnect the uplink. I was an SP MWD handler. I know for a fact, that we only seemed to know how to break stuff...let alone put anything back together! LoL :)

Response by PO3 Michael Brennan made Oct 17 at 2014 2:44 AM

2014-10-17T02:44:20-04:00

Living and working in Hollywood almost my whole life, I do have to say that it is illegal/and or considered immoral for actors to wear their uniforms as properly as SM, and there has to be at least one discrepancy in appearance whether it is the medal order which is the most common, covers or haircuts. I thought you all should know this fact. However, the endless magazines and ridiculous action sequences definitely bother me, but there is a very solid reason for most movie discrepancies that aren't related to the overall entertainment value that needs to be taken into consideration.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Oct 17 at 2014 6:41 AM

2014-10-17T06:41:40-04:00

For me its the EM-50 urban assault vehicle. Common, everybody knows the real EM-50 wasnt a GMC but an Airstream.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Oct 17 at 2014 6:47 AM

2014-10-17T06:47:04-04:00

How about the A-team. Ever notice these special forces guys never once, ever actually hit anybody?

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 17 at 2014 12:48 PM

2014-10-17T12:48:19-04:00

'Good' guys never die. Well, almost. I mean, who likes unhappy endings?

Response by Cpl John Jones made Oct 17 at 2014 1:06 PM

2014-10-17T13:06:24-04:00

Indeed, the salutes kill me.

Stand at POA, wrist straight, thumb extended and joined, fingers at the brim of the cover, upper arm parallel to the deck, "Good morning/afternoon/evening, sir/ma'am". and NEVER salute when uncovered.

Response by TSgt Phil Textor made Oct 17 at 2014 2:02 PM

2014-10-17T14:02:29-04:00

The show Stargate is horrible, terrible, awful and just plain bad when it comes to anything military. I love SF but I just turn off that part of my brain and just ignore it.

Response by SPC Kendra Hempel made Oct 17 at 2014 2:36 PM

2014-10-17T14:36:19-04:00

I hate when a team goes rouge against orders to safe someone or something. When they return to base they are never disciplined, and only one or two have died. This kind of portrait of what the armed forces does is dangerous. To the young who want to join and for the civilian who will expect the impossible from those soldiers. I cant watch the military movies anymore. Its a lie to all that watch it and believe in it.

Response by Sgt Al Machad made Oct 17 at 2014 4:24 PM

2014-10-17T16:24:07-04:00

I can't decide which of the three is least convincing!? Dustin Hoffman, Cuba Gooding Jr or Donald Sutherland? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKBEpCGcQeU

Response by Sgt Al Machad made Oct 17 at 2014 4:29 PM

2014-10-17T16:29:53-04:00

Full Metal Jacket as we know is a great movie. But I can't understand why such a lethal sniper can't take out joker when they're 25 yards apart. Would it have killed her to put the weapon in her shoulder instead of shooting from the hip? Their military consultant must have been out sick the day they shot that scene.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4XNyNAjF1m0#t=95

Full Metal Jacket Sniper Scene

Scene from Full Metal Jacket were they search the sniper which killed their brothers in arms.

Response by PO2 Steven Erickson made Oct 17 at 2014 5:31 PM

2014-10-17T17:31:00-04:00

My list is long, but...

Technical: Battleship - (among many problems) Having about 2 dozen WWII vets taking the USS Missouri into combat, then swing the 60,000 ton battlewagon 90 degrees on an anchor chain...

Uniform: [Forgot the movie] - Senior officer was wearing a Surface Warfare Pin ON EACH OF HIS COLLARS!!!! Had to pause the movie to recover...

Response by PFC Zanie Young made Oct 17 at 2014 6:13 PM

2014-10-17T18:13:00-04:00

Doing no research on military customs is my pet peeve about military movies. I know it's broad, but unless you actually served in the military, don't make a movie about the military. There is no sense in spending millions of dollars making movies based on what you don't know about and haven't done. That is especially true with the military, because that will affect anyone who is trying to join or even considering joining the military because they think it will be like in the movies and it will give the wrong impression to those wannabes when they find out otherwise.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Oct 18 at 2014 7:42 AM

2014-10-18T07:42:00-04:00

The "virtual" magazines that never need changing, the unending ammo belts for the machine guns and the grenades with the explosive force of a 155 round.

Response by PO2 Tanya Middlebrooks made Oct 18 at 2014 10:03 AM

2014-10-18T10:03:34-04:00

Rendering of the hand salute does drive me crazy. Another thing that drives me crazy (especially in JAG) is when they show people having a normal conversation on a flight deck with no hearing protection! Really??

Response by SP5 Joel O'Brien made Oct 18 at 2014 11:32 AM

2014-10-18T11:32:55-04:00

This may seem minor but...
In "Good Morning, Vietnam", Robin Williams is playing regular, commercial records. If they wanted to be true-to-life, they would have used real, official AFRTS discs.

Response by PO1 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 18 at 2014 1:33 PM

2014-10-18T13:33:10-04:00

Improper saluting in movies doesn't seem inaccurate to me. I am honestly not sure if my salute has ever been returned properly. It almost seems like the teach naval officers a different way to salute!

Response by PFC Paul Ritchey made Oct 18 at 2014 2:38 PM

2014-10-18T14:38:14-04:00

Improper communications protocol. Eveery time I hear "over and out" or "wilco" when there is nothing to comply to, or failure to use call signs, it drives me nuts. Then again I was 31C RATT operator when I was in, that might have something to do with that.

Response by PFC William Yarber made Oct 18 at 2014 3:39 PM

2014-10-18T15:39:16-04:00

When 5.56 blows up cars, or when that one guy goes off on his own and dose his own thing

Response by PO3 Damion Jones made Oct 18 at 2014 4:39 PM

2014-10-18T16:39:49-04:00

Seeing some one in a uniform with no under shirt or walking outside with no cover on. Kills me.

Response by SPC Jesse McMurtry made Oct 19 at 2014 12:22 AM

2014-10-19T00:22:39-04:00

When the uniform and general practices are incorrect. So simple if they do their homework before filming. Better yet hire a veteran to be an adviser.

Response by PO2 Chip Powell made Oct 19 at 2014 1:43 PM

2014-10-19T13:43:29-04:00

HAIRCUTS! as a Navy vet, it drives me batshit crazy to see dixie cups in movies with hair hanging out every where.

Response by SSG Trevor S. made Oct 19 at 2014 2:11 PM

2014-10-19T14:11:16-04:00

For me it is two fold;

1. We are constantly running around base in formation with weapons in duty uniform and t-shirts.
2. Junior Enlisted and Junior NCO's only have yell mode. Why does Hollywood think every enlisted member is a hearing impaired member of the artillery?

Response by MSG John Wirts made Oct 19 at 2014 5:59 PM

2014-10-19T17:59:40-04:00

I was stationed in Germany we watched an Armed Forces Television series titled Platoon. This series was set in WWII , The "German Vehicles" were often U.S. Army jeeps, 3/4 ton trucks, and 2 1/2 ton trucks. Later When I was watching Iron Eagle II, the "Russians" came in flying American F-4 fighters!

Response by SFC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2014 6:03 PM

2014-10-19T18:03:51-04:00

Running through rice paddies

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2014 6:16 PM

2014-10-19T18:16:01-04:00

Salutes....then by "Sir" if it is not an officer as we all know NCOs hate that. Rank after that.

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2014 8:15 PM

2014-10-19T20:15:52-04:00

I always loved how whenever someone opens a truck there's all kinds of weapons and ammo just piled up in a big ole mess. And weapons are always carted around in wooden crates packed with saw dust or packing peanuts. OH, and always, and I mean always, transported fully loaded and ready for combat.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 19 at 2014 9:07 PM

2014-10-19T21:07:49-04:00

The wear of the uniforms. Sadly the question won't let me list all the other inaccuracies and liberties that Hollywood takes when depicting us.

Response by 1SG Rich Martinez made Oct 19 at 2014 11:31 PM

2014-10-19T23:31:03-04:00

For me it how they wear the ACUs. They always put the collar up and use the Velcro. That annoys the hell out of me. That and the many uniform violations. If the movie set has an advisor then they need to be fired.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2014 4:16 AM

2014-10-20T04:16:57-04:00

I got this:
#1. Actors are Soft as Baby Sh*t. Why is everyone always racking a round at the last minute? Did you not have a round in the chamber before? Not to mention you only ever hear a bunch of clicking sounds and if you do see them (for instance on a pistol) rack the slide it's always the distinct sound of closing on an empty chamber, and again...why are you racking it after you pointed it at someone!? What happened there guy?! Ever seen them work the action on an M4 by the way - in the few movies that show it? Looks suspiciously like they've never done it before.
#2. Accidently Shot That guy, Whoops! Everyone's damn finger on the damn trigger every damn minute of the damn day. )See attached picture of Bruce Willis firing a round into the sky.)
#3. The Magic Disappearing Weapon. Dude's carrying a glock in one scene and then BAM, halfway through the chase he's got an M9. Hey now, we gotta cut to the M9 because it has an external hammer and we need the drama. Fine! Keep the same weapon though the movie then!

Response by CPT Michael Moyers made Oct 20 at 2014 7:36 AM

2014-10-20T07:36:46-04:00

There are a good many points already made that I could bring up. One that annoys me tremendously is how officers are portrayed as incompetent, petulant narcissists (bear in mind that I've a decade on both sides of the E/O line). I have met some people who never should have been commissioned, I have also met NCOs and enlisted oxygen thieves as well. It just seems that there is this idea that Lieutenants and Captains spend their time ruining missions while screaming "I'm in charge!!! You guys....listen to me!! I'm in charge!!"

Response by SSgt Melanie Vojak made Oct 20 at 2014 9:06 AM

2014-10-20T09:06:28-04:00

They are NOT us. We can't hold them to our standard. I'm not saying that I don't get highly irked over misrepresentation. I just have to rationalize with myself that we're not professional actors, they are not professional ARMED FORCES!!! Huah! Anyway, I get most upset over stupid tactics myself. To be honest, I can't watch most movies that are military related.

Response by SFC Sean Carlson made Oct 20 at 2014 12:22 PM

2014-10-20T12:22:50-04:00

The way the hold there weapon. Spot it all the time. The unfamiliar way they hold/carry it or the way they aim, etc. No muscle memory built in, so the movements are not fluid or natural. After so many years as a 11B, you're weapon (and not just you're rifle), tends to become a second appendage. You carry it ALL the time. You eat with it, sleep with it, !@#$ with it, etc.

Also along the same lines, the way the wear there equipment. As if they are not use to it. I always also comment on the way people move while wearing a ruck. Again, no natural side to side kinda sway that comes natural from wearing it. Even carries over to when you are not wearing because you are just so use to walking that way.

That's my two cents for what it's worth.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Oct 20 at 2014 1:28 PM

2014-10-20T13:28:33-04:00

Everyone is not Chuck Norris from the "Missing in Action" series or "Delta Force" Anything less simply won't do!

Response by TSgt Phil Textor made Oct 20 at 2014 1:41 PM

2014-10-20T13:41:27-04:00

King this is Banana, COME IN argghhhh............ I was a radio operator and every time I hear this I cringe. Just like over and out, this was used 70 years ago, but not today.

Response by SPC Chelsea Fernandez made Oct 20 at 2014 3:17 PM

2014-10-20T15:17:06-04:00

Military in movies are starting to get overrated. Television show such as Enlisted give the military a bad name especially the Army. I feel that Hollywood blows everything out of propositions. Thats just me

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2014 3:28 PM

2014-10-20T15:28:37-04:00

it is a movie.... it is for enteratinment purposes... i get more annoyed at people who point out things wrong in movies(all movies) once again i say its a movie enjoy it...

Response by SPC Tonya Lovelace made Oct 20 at 2014 3:37 PM

2014-10-20T15:37:06-04:00

Sorry, but It doesn't bother me at all. Sure I will point it out when I see a poor attempt at a solute while watching a movie, but I am not going to get all butt hurt over it. I also point out other things like a grenade isn't going to cause that extreme of an explosion or no one is going to fly 10 feet backwards after getting shot with a hand gun. None of those things are going to piss me off. They are just movies, they are not actually saluting anyone of actual importance, so I don't truly care about how jacked up it is.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 20 at 2014 4:10 PM

2014-10-20T16:10:27-04:00

-Huge firey explosions from things that wouldn't produce them (grenades, RPGs, Satchel Charges, Mines).
-Explosions that don't hurt anyone nearby (frag)
-Things that explode that wouldn't really explode (gas tanks on cars, C4 being shot with a gun)
-Awesome marksmen, who don't aim but hit everything (especially with pistols)
-The chatter that happens in the background that makes no sense (Michael Bay movies are notorious for that. "Special Forces inbound!" would never be said on comms.
- Everyone's uniforms are clean and pressed...in combat
- Depending on the film, there are never bad injuries from flying objects. Just bumps and bruises.
-They never depict "hurry up and wait"
-Yelling "GO GO GO" every time a vehicle stops or someone kicks open a door...because in real life, everyone knows when they are supposed to "go".

Response by LTJG Kev Matth made Oct 20 at 2014 4:16 PM

2014-10-20T16:16:55-04:00

I love the movie "Armageddon". But I just shake my head at how one of the SPs goes up and tells a scientist that he needs to "relinquish his terminal", and then the SECURITY GUY sits down and starts typing and talking to the satellite! I've heard of cross training, but that is ridiculous!

Same movie, there's the scene where the AF general flies out to the oil rig in the South China Sea wearing his dress uniform-on a helicopter! What, he doesn't have a flight suit hanging in his closet?

Response by SP5 Terry Pool made Oct 20 at 2014 6:41 PM

2014-10-20T18:41:56-04:00

I would have to agree with you! Getting the salute correct always should be the easiest thing to learn about a military movie! Every time I see an improper salute I always comment on how sloppy and poor that the salute was! Then I mention that they need to learn how to do a "REAL" salute! For correctness sake, my rank was not a SP5, it was a SGT! Which also reminds me that when Forest Gump was wearing SGT stripes, everyone kept calling him "private" or "PFC" and that always chapped my hide.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 12:19 AM

2014-10-21T00:19:08-04:00

I loathe the portrayal of horrible stereotypes: the clueless lieutenant, the NCO who only knows his/her rules, the hard nose colonel who doesn't accept suggestions, the omnipotent private. Professional Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines know how they fit into the larger situation. This problem is rampant in 1980s military movies, and has gotten better in recent years. However, you still see it, and it often carries an aura of a writer who seems to have a grudge against a specific group of individuals.

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 4:45 AM

2014-10-21T04:45:52-04:00

I can't stand watching a "military" movie depicting service members with hairstyles in violation of AR 670-1.

Response by SGM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 8:31 AM

2014-10-21T08:31:10-04:00

I escorted one of the film crews for the movie Private Benjamin as we gather sounds of women in the Army during cadence calls...and worked as a stuntman in the worst hollywood movie ever--Inchon! In both cases the stereotypes were locked in the minds of the writers and embellished by directors who themselves were not veterans.

Response by PO1 Clayton Weis made Oct 21 at 2014 9:53 AM

2014-10-21T09:53:57-04:00

With an asterisk, I'd have to say my biggest pet-peave regarding military movies and television is scripting completely out-of-this-world situations that are so far-fetched they lose any dramatic impact they may have carried. Take "The Hurt Locker" as an example (disclaimer: I am not EOD, but I did have a bunch of this broken down for me by an EODC augmenting an NSW platoon): you've got an EOD tech who is so much of a cowboy he doesn't even stay in comms with his team while working on a bomb; he takes off from base with no authorization, alone, wearing a hoodie, IN IRAQ to go hunt somebody down for an emotional confrontation, and THEN doesn't get shot or arrested coming back on base?!?! Look, I know some wild shit happens down range. I know excursions into civilian areas get made that are totally under the table. I know alcohol gets smuggled in and folks get shit-faced; but, c'mon!!!

Asterisk: I admit that, before learning anything about the EOD community and their mission, I thought this movie was badass. So, maybe this crapshit has a place entertaining those who never serve and never will, or those who, like me at one point, only served in the most vanilla of billets. It's still crapshit.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 10:42 AM

2014-10-21T10:42:24-04:00

The uniform is what really gets me. I mean there are regs they can get their hands on that spell it out, not to mention the wealth of photos out there of properly uniformed military members.

Response by LCpl A. Chapman made Oct 21 at 2014 11:19 AM

2014-10-21T11:19:00-04:00

This movie isn't a "military movie" per se, but it portrays a military setup in such a way I cannot stand watching or hearing about it. 28 Weeks Later had some of the most unrealistic, stupid fake military tactics/setup/security of vast majority of movies I have ever seen.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 11:57 AM

2014-10-21T11:57:08-04:00

SPC Private RallyPoint Member - That they are not all Air Force people? LOL

Response by CSM Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 12:43 PM

2014-10-21T12:43:26-04:00

Not to switch the subject...but if I hear "Tango" or "Tango Mucho" on the net anymore I'm going to lose my mind!!! Sorry..this made me think of it and I had to vent! ARGH!

Response by MAJ Chris Ballard made Oct 21 at 2014 3:26 PM

2014-10-21T15:26:02-04:00

For me, if not the salute, it's the beret. I can't take someone seriously as an SFRangerSealCAGOperator with that bag on his head.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 4:26 PM

2014-10-21T16:26:52-04:00

I generally cringe at inaccuracies in movies but I can't STAND it when it seems like they didn't even try to get it right. You can tell when they tried to be up to speed on everything from weapons to tactics to uniforms but some movies it feels like they didn't even have an adviser on set to tell them to fix themselves!

Response by SSG Jamil Spruill made Oct 21 at 2014 5:54 PM

2014-10-21T17:54:41-04:00

The thing that gets me is the portrayal of female soldiers, now I know plenty or tough female soldiers, some have been very hardened from their upbringing but they still have pretty decent personalities. When you see them in movies it seems they have to be the most dangerous and uncaring individuals in the movie, check out some of the movies lately and see perfect shot everytime, stare in the monsters face, run through insane mine fields untouched, intimidating every man, even my wife gets offended seeing this because she has grown up around military people and they still a very easy to relate with and talk to without being insane tough guys

Response by PO1 Jason Powers made Oct 21 at 2014 7:04 PM

2014-10-21T19:04:47-04:00

Steel grated decks in submarines, and pretty much any depiction of submarine life in movies, with the exception of Down Periscope!

Response by SFC Robert Dimitroff made Oct 21 at 2014 7:14 PM

2014-10-21T19:14:10-04:00

Not using proper military time. O is a letter Zero is a number. GET IT RIGHT.

Response by SPC Adriel Martinez made Oct 21 at 2014 8:16 PM

2014-10-21T20:16:25-04:00

What gets me is inaccurate portrayals of weapon usage, such as firing a M2HB from the hip, A M2HB!! not the M1919 the Ma deuce from the hip...or reversely calling a M1919 a "fifty cal". Berets are always wrong, I've yet to see one properly formed. Of course the Infinity magazines and nuclear grenades or cover that's really concealment with and invisible shield that can stop anything up to a missile.

Response by Cpl Jim Janssen made Oct 21 at 2014 8:29 PM

2014-10-21T20:29:43-04:00

When they call Marines "Soldier".

Response by 1SG Rick Ochoa made Oct 21 at 2014 8:43 PM

2014-10-21T20:43:24-04:00

Right up there with improper salutes is incorrect wear of the Army beret (which I hate). If you are going to wear it wear it correctly!

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 8:47 PM

2014-10-21T20:47:12-04:00

It really bugs me when they exaggerate actual capabilities of an existing platform...perfect example... In multiple movies and shows...it makes a Hellfire missile strong enough to destroy entire buildings... COME ON....its lucky to disable a truck....

Response by MSgt Roger Lalik made Oct 21 at 2014 9:45 PM

2014-10-21T21:45:51-04:00

A Marines uniform that's wrong just makes my eye's cross. But a Marine in a dress uniform with hair hanging over the back of his collar just makes me wanna scream.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 21 at 2014 10:56 PM

2014-10-21T22:56:02-04:00

The sheer amounts of facial hair, especially when the movie/T.V. show takes place in garrison.

Response by Cpl Gregory Hajder made Oct 21 at 2014 11:16 PM

2014-10-21T23:16:54-04:00

I hate how people in movies alway cock and re-cock shotguns every time they are about to 'go into action' .

Response by SrA Marc Haynes made Oct 21 at 2014 11:56 PM

2014-10-21T23:56:58-04:00

My poor son, every time there is an improper salute he has to hear me say he did it wrong & sometimes he even gets a demonstration of how to salute correctly.

When I was in basic at Lackland when we went to chow we had to salute in a mirror & there was ALWAYS a TI there watching.

Response by Cpl Gregory Hajder made Oct 22 at 2014 1:06 AM

2014-10-22T01:06:10-04:00

There is always something that has driven me crazy. In the movie "Heartbreak Ridge" the character of Gunny Highway supposedly has a Medal of Honor. When he reports to his new C.O. the guy gives him a world of gruff. This guy must be tottally ignorant. By right the award (the person wearint it) requires a sulute first. B.T.W. while he is in dress blues should should he (Gunny Highway) be wearing the medal around his neck vs. the simple ribbon on his chest?

Response by SPC David S. made Oct 22 at 2014 9:34 AM

2014-10-22T09:34:44-04:00

Just saw Camp Xray - she's a Marine walking around while on duty with hands in her pockets.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 22 at 2014 11:34 AM

2014-10-22T11:34:41-04:00

Top Gun's "Migs"

Response by Cpl Peter Martuneac made Oct 22 at 2014 1:11 PM

2014-10-22T13:11:18-04:00

The way they talk on radios. I was my squad radio operator, so that never gets past me. That's actually the biggest reason I liked Act of Valor, b/c they spoke on the radio in a correct manner.

Response by SSG Tim Everett made Oct 22 at 2014 1:20 PM

2014-10-22T13:20:20-04:00

You know, just about every military movie has some BS in it. Even "much-lauded" ones like that joke Hurt Locker. I've learned to ignore most of it, but there is ONE, just a single one, absolutely unforgivable gaffe that really gets under my skin: berets, for anything with someone in the American military taking place after the 80s.

If it's not the complete screw-up of an incorrectly shaped beret (wearing it like a chef hat or a mushroomed appearance), it's some random Joe Blow wearing a beret in combat.

It's not like Hollywood couldn't spend a hundred bucks to borrow some retired NCO from any Ranger battalion to show up for a single day and square them away.

Response by PO1 Mike Edgecomb made Oct 22 at 2014 2:44 PM

2014-10-22T14:44:51-04:00

Scenes where a mortar or artillery shell impacts a few feet away, blowing the soldier through the air. The Soldier then gets up, dusts himself off, and is back in the fight.

Response by SN Brian Mosser made Oct 22 at 2014 4:41 PM

2014-10-22T16:41:32-04:00

the whole John Wayne radio... saying over after every transmission. Thats one. TWO: the poorly based idea of Battleship.... the boarding team would not be just 2 people you need an entire 9 man team plus coxswain and engineer/240 gunner. The endless amounts of ammo in the same magazines. Last time i check military uses 30 round 5.56 mags and 15 round 9mm mags, but yet in movies it is an endless amount of Rambo ammo.

Response by SGT Scott Curtice made Oct 22 at 2014 6:38 PM

2014-10-22T18:38:43-04:00

I'd have to agree with the proper salute, outside of comedies, which I give a pass. I do notice poor spacing of infantry units on foot, and other things, but it's hollywood

Response by SPC Lindsay Siegfried made Oct 22 at 2014 8:25 PM

2014-10-22T20:25:05-04:00

Anytime theres a convenient pilot. Every action movie seems like they have one guy in the squad who just happens to be a pilot. This goes hand in hand with my other pet peeve, that the second someone gets the word "pilot" attached to them, they can fly everything from a tiny little Cessna, to an alien fighter pod, to a foreign attack helicopter, to a space shuttle. Just hop in, slide your "verified pilot" card through the slot, and press the "lets go" button.

Response by GySgt Terrence Fry made Oct 22 at 2014 9:08 PM

2014-10-22T21:08:12-04:00

Not a military movie, but... need I say more!!???

Response by SFC Monica Valdiviez-Wiley made Oct 22 at 2014 9:14 PM

2014-10-22T21:14:14-04:00

Getting the uniform wrong!

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2014 12:22 AM

2014-10-23T00:22:40-04:00

The Salute, is always jacked up, either they place their hands in the wrong spot, or take the salute down before the officer even raises his...

Response by SFC Stephen Hester made Oct 23 at 2014 8:13 AM

2014-10-23T08:13:03-04:00

Jacked up hand salutes and jacked up berets are a couple of my pet peeves. Junior enlisted with six rows of ribbons follows pretty close behind.

Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made Oct 23 at 2014 11:36 AM

2014-10-23T11:36:34-04:00

It always bothers me when they show Officers receiving praise and respect from their soldiers. That never happens in the real world and can only be fantasy.

Response by SGT Scott Curtice made Oct 23 at 2014 12:34 PM

2014-10-23T12:34:41-04:00

thought about this a bit more, and though I think the salute is more important, I think military dress uniforms with awards placed wrong probably urks me more than anything, just no reason for ribbons out of order, getting distances at least close to correct, and even having the appropriate ones, I mean unless it's specific to the story you are telling about an individual, seeing an army cook with a pathfinder badge is ridiculous

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2014 1:41 PM

2014-10-23T13:41:35-04:00

Battle Los Angeles... The entire movie.

Response by TSgt Phil Textor made Oct 24 at 2014 1:39 PM

2014-10-24T13:39:42-04:00

There was a group scene in Stargate where they showed a guy in air force blue uniform with sergeant stripes and major insignia both on the same uniform. We figured, that's correct, he's an air force sergeant major..................

Response by SGT William Howell made Oct 24 at 2014 5:39 PM

2014-10-24T17:39:25-04:00

Everything on Army Wives. I want to smoke everyone on the show!

"No Col, you can't drive Humvee at 80 mph all over the base." "Oh! It is an emergency! This is the 30th time this week, you ever thought about getting your shit together so these, emergencies stop?"

"Oh and fix your cover mushroom head! Now get on your face!"

They could hire a PV1 from the National Guard to advise and get somewhat realistic.

Now the answer everyone wants to know. My girlfriend watches it and I can't get off the couch fast enough.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 31 at 2014 4:47 PM

2014-10-31T16:47:18-04:00

I would have to say that the rank thing usually upsets me there is the occasional stuff they say that makes no sense in military terminology.

Response by Sgt Packy Flickinger made Nov 1 at 2014 3:45 AM

2014-11-01T03:45:12-04:00

Anybody watch NCIS? If you did have you noticed how bad Mark's high and tight is? its not always even side to side and there is usually a really distinct line and not a gradual fade. Yea, he'd fail inspection.

Courage under fire. Meg received the Medal of Honor but Denzel gave her his Silver Star to honor her. I'm thinking the MOH is enough, can't do a whole lot better.

Response by CPT Jephro Kimbo made Nov 6 at 2014 4:51 PM

2014-11-06T16:51:55-05:00

2 of Arnold Schwarzenegger's movies that are really jacked up. Commando ( do not get me started ) and Terminator 2 when he uses the M-79 grenade launcher and the door blows up. WTH?

Response by SFC Dustin Drew made Nov 11 at 2014 11:50 PM

2014-11-11T23:50:41-05:00

Ten Hut!!!

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 17 at 2014 1:40 PM

2014-12-17T13:40:15-05:00

I don't mind it much if its suppose to be fictional. I do wish they would at least be clean shaven and have a hair cut. Did anyone see Murder at the Presidio, their was a black Captain that sported a goatee and there were issues with his uniform I can't remember. To me it is also fun to spot the screw-ups. Everyday military life sometimes is not very exciting. I remember some series that came out around 2005, it was suppose to be about the Iraq war. They had them being called up and on a plane in hours, few hours later they were dodging IEDS in Baghdad. No, it wouldnt be very fun to watch them take cultural awareness class, lanes train ect for 3 months, fly over to another location spend a few more weeks in briefings ect and then finally going over the berm....kind of un related pic, guess the show

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 8 at 2015 3:21 PM

2015-01-08T15:21:43-05:00

The Expendables berets!! Did they even shaved them?!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 25 at 2015 5:38 PM

2015-03-25T17:38:53-04:00

I never see a straight gig line. Belts, pants, and shirts are off seam. That's a big deal to me. Crooked gig lines look so terrible. I am always checking my gig line.

Response by SFC Charles S. made Mar 25 at 2015 5:49 PM

2015-03-25T17:49:25-04:00

It's always about the small things. Haircut, Uniform imperfections, Ribbons, Boots, PT Gear, Something small... If Hollywood paid a service member a small fee they would probably catch all of these before the movie was released. I know they pay Consultants large fees for crap that is huge in the movie. BUT put 1 SGM on staff to police the stuff they normally correct on a daily basis and all would be fixed.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Apr 16 at 2015 3:53 PM

2015-04-16T15:53:29-04:00

M1 Tanks on line going balls to the wall 10 meters from each other.

Response by CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 3:58 PM

2015-04-16T15:58:04-04:00

Definitely dress and appearance issues... Perfectly coifed hair on men or women in uniform.. When they have a female with long flowing locks and perfect glamour makeup in "dress uniform"--and there seems to be an abundance of high heels and clipboards.

Basically, when they pimp out any version of the uniform. ((exhale))

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 16 at 2015 4:13 PM

2015-04-16T16:13:04-04:00

Shotgun Physics.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Apr 16 at 2015 5:58 PM

2015-04-16T17:58:41-04:00

Any scenes with aircraft. Jet noise with prop planes. C130s doing a personnel drop on D-day. Star walks away from a fiery aircraft crash. Dropping napalm within 10 meters of friendly troops. Russian, Chinese, or Japanese pilots flying US aircraft.

Unbroken is well done for the flying scenes.

Response by MAJ Chris Ballard made Apr 17 at 2015 9:27 AM

2015-04-17T09:27:49-04:00

*Drops Mike*

Response by SSgt Dan Montague made Apr 17 at 2015 9:33 AM

2015-04-17T09:33:28-04:00

lack of proper grooming standards, wearing uniform incorrectly, and over dramatized motivation.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 17 at 2015 5:46 PM

2015-04-17T17:46:52-04:00

Haircuts, haircuts and haircuts. Actors want to get paid the big bucks to play Marines, but don't want to get a proper haircut.

Response by 1LT Nick Kidwell made Apr 18 at 2015 4:23 PM

2015-04-18T16:23:47-04:00

The incorrect usage/effects of weapons really bugs me, especially when the REST of it is pretty accurately depicted.

Response by 1SG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2015 4:26 PM

2015-04-18T16:26:18-04:00

It makes me absolutely crazy when watching a movie and seeing a uniform incorrect. My wife hates when I start up about it during a movie....but with all of the things available to check it out on line...HOW a could someone screw that up?

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 18 at 2015 10:21 PM

2015-04-18T22:21:32-04:00

When they say each individual letter of the acronym... The F. O. B. Endless ammo, uniforms. I know the uniform use is restricted, but when the collar is flipped up on the ACUs, it bugs me

Response by PO1 John Miller made Apr 18 at 2015 11:51 PM

2015-04-18T23:51:39-04:00

I know it's already been mentioned, but uniform discrepancies are my big thing. I am reminded of the COB (Chief of the Boat) in Crimson Tide wearing a gold band on his combination cover. Hello! Only Officers have a gold band on their combo covers???

Another thing that got me in that movie, and I'm not even a submariner (but I do understand basic physics): in one scene where the boat is submerging they empty the ballast tanks. Excuse me but how does dropping weight make a submarine sink???

Response by SGT Steve Oakes made Apr 19 at 2015 10:01 AM

2015-04-19T10:01:31-04:00

I am with you on the Salute! It also drives me nuts when they cycle the action on a weapon without reason. They are wasting ammo!

Response by PO1 John Meyer, CPC made Apr 19 at 2015 10:28 AM

2015-04-19T10:28:23-04:00

The salute for sure! It's the easiest thing to get right, yet it's done wrong so many times.

Response by CPL Dan McCready made Apr 26 at 2015 4:04 AM

2015-04-26T04:04:23-04:00

So many of mine have already been covered, how about the kill shot from a pistol from an outrageous distance?

Response by TSgt Phil Textor made Apr 29 at 2015 3:17 PM

2015-04-29T15:17:28-04:00

In the tv show Stargate there was a promotion ceremony with a guy in blues with sgt. stripes on the arms and Major collar brass on the collar. I guess he was a Sgt Major?

Response by SGT Jeremiah B. made May 6 at 2015 12:08 PM

2015-05-06T12:08:36-04:00

I stopped being nitpicky after reading an article from a military adviser in Hollywood that said they essentially make errors on purpose because it looks cooler. The real deal is sometimes far less interesting...and he's right. No one cares that the Australian Peal at the end of Heat was actually done correctly (it was, which gave my Recon heart little flutters of joy), they just care that it looks cool as hell. The MA's will lock that down when they can, but it still happens.

That said, hand grenades with explosions so enormous no one would ever throw one and infantrymen that don't seem to consider using cover.

Oh and obvious vismods. God, I hate obvious vismods.

Response by SPC Jeffrey Bly made May 6 at 2015 12:23 PM

2015-05-06T12:23:34-04:00

Spot on! The salute is also one of my pet peeves!

Response by SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 6 at 2015 5:17 PM

2015-05-06T17:17:53-04:00

Salutes rendered wrong or between enlisted people is a big one. The other one is when they say ranks wrong or try to say that a PFC is in charge of a whole squad or something.

Response by CPT Bruce Rodgers made May 6 at 2015 5:27 PM

2015-05-06T17:27:26-04:00

Generals wearing branch insignia

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 7 at 2015 12:54 PM

2015-05-07T12:54:10-04:00

When I see them wearing ACUs with the mandarin collar up.

Response by Cpl Phil Hsueh made May 7 at 2015 2:04 PM

2015-05-07T14:04:30-04:00

Here's something that nobody's brought up yet, people who look either too old or too young for their rank. While Clint was the poster child for a Gunny in Heartbreak Ridge he was rather old to be a Gunny with 20+ years in. Likewise, Aaron Eckhart was very old looking Staff Sgt. when most Marine Staff Sgts are in their late 20 to mid thirties at oldest. I can't think of any examples of people being too young for their rank at the moment but I'm pretty certain that I've seen some very young looking officers in movies and on TV.

Response by PO2 Brad Colonna made May 7 at 2015 4:14 PM

2015-05-07T16:14:08-04:00

Improper rendering of the salute. All the production company would need to do is hire ANY veteran and he/she would be able to train the actors on how to properly salute.

Response by HN Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 12 at 2015 8:45 PM

2015-09-12T20:45:57-04:00

I despise the lack of respect up and down the chain of command.
the uniform mistakes are often laughworthy, but the interactions make me sick. lol

Response by SSgt Alex Robinson made Sep 21 at 2015 11:56 PM

2015-09-21T23:56:46-04:00

I dislike anything that portray the military in a negative way... our men and women in uniform are motivated and well educated

Response by SPC Tim Richardson made Sep 22 at 2015 12:28 AM

2015-09-22T00:28:15-04:00

One thing that chaps my ass is in the Rambo movies he fires the M60 single handedly.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made Sep 22 at 2015 12:32 AM

2015-09-22T00:32:06-04:00

Incorrect use/holding of weapons... Get your finger off the trigger, use two points of control...and for the love of God put it to your shoulder and aim

Response by TSgt Kenneth Ellis made Sep 22 at 2015 12:53 AM

2015-09-22T00:53:05-04:00

Maybe not movies but on TV. They are never in 3510.

Response by SPC Vincenzo Mariani made Oct 18 at 2015 1:01 PM

2015-10-18T13:01:36-04:00

The typical "tell my wife I love Em" line. Another thing that bothers me is when they get patches wrong like having a deployment patch but no current unit patch on the left shoulder. or soldiers wearing an American flag on the left shoulder rather than the right shoulder. Confusing uniforms or marines and soldiers.... Getting units completely wrong (for example having a 101st airborne division patch and being EOD, and not being attached to said airborne unit) when combatants yell "throw me a clip!" When it's really a magazine, or calling a rifle or any other weapon a "gun". Maybe I'm just severely anal, or my drill instructors were pretty specific about certain terms to never use. Oh and of course the typical shoulder mounted rocket trooper never yelling "back blast area clear!" That's a big no no.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Oct 18 at 2015 1:42 PM

2015-10-18T13:42:39-04:00

Tanks that are on line and 10 feet a part.

Response by SPC William Del Valle made Nov 8 at 2015 9:59 AM

2015-11-08T09:59:00-05:00

I will agree, it does bother me a little but I look at it this way. With so many people trying to pose as military or veterans, movies is where I would think they learn how to put on a uniform. It's their AR 670- 1 - movie uniform regulation lol! I think it would be easy for RP members to spot fakes and frauds.

Response by SrA Johnathan Kropke made Dec 11 at 2015 11:33 AM

2015-12-11T11:33:29-05:00

I have two when it comes to military movies.
First the uniform is always wrong, so freaking annoying in that sense.

The second is the use of snipers and hand grenades. A hand grenade is not that light and they throw it like a baseball......WRONG.....and a sniper shooting another sniper through the scope while the other sniper is already staring the first guy down.......CRAP......that sniper who usually is shot through the scope had a good five seconds to kill the guy with a normal shot before the second guy even sees him, aims, then fires at the eye of the enemy....THE EYE.....just stupid shooting in that case.

Response by SSgt Lonnie Montgomery made Feb 12 at 2016 1:08 AM

2016-02-12T01:08:56-05:00

SPC John Tousle,

Oh the hand salute is defiantly right up there with the endless magazines, male hair styles, female glamour shoots, “good guys” are always marksmen, and the general lack of military customs. But, if I had to name just one it would be the military uniform, regardless of which branch, or the scene being portrayed, pay attention to the details of the uniform. Hollywood please don’t mess with our flag nor our military uniforms.

SFC Kevin Hankins,

If I remember right it was the sole responsibility (unwritten of course), of the senior enlisted person to watch out for and educate the newly assigned (or minted), officer. This was the only way to season his officer and protect his men and get the mission done. It did not matter how your officer received his commission, until they are seasoned and ready to stand on their own it is your responsibly to lead.

Response by 1LT John Fleming made Feb 21 at 2016 3:06 PM

2016-02-21T15:06:58-05:00

Patrols, group meetings etc in obvious contact-expected zones where the guys are five feet from each other instead of 5 meters.Also way too much noise while moving (at night especially!)I tried to get then so used to each other, and watching signals from leaders,we would move so silently, and respond, chage directions,shift positions, it was spooky.They bad guys never saw/heard
you until it was too late (for them)The one time I was actually graded on this, the grader said,after 18 hours of marching, "I have to see how your people react on ambush- you have evaded twelve ambushes in 18 hours- you tell me where you are going,and I will stand right next to you to make certain you dont signal anyone The grader was Capt Green, a former SF Officer, and DSC holder,who received promotion to Major before I left Active Duty.This was with 1/4 Infantry,3d ID,1975

Response by SPC Chez (Chris) Chesak made Jul 12 at 2016 8:03 AM

2016-07-12T08:03:12-04:00

You know, I forgive most of the stupid crap they mess up about the military in tv and movies. It's just ignorance. The thing that REALLY chaps my body armor though is the g*ddamn snare drum. Virtually EVERY tv show and movie suddenly has a snare drum slowly playing in the background the minute they do the usual slow pan destination shot of a base or post. Like as if every time we stepped onto a military facility, there was a guy there, slowing drumming a snare...

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 31 at 2016 4:29 AM

2016-12-31T04:29:33-05:00

an officer wearing the Flash With his unit crests instead of his rank. Just like a picture above showing the Beret not worn correctly.

Response by CPT Ryan H. made Jan 14 at 2017 6:17 PM

2017-01-14T18:17:47-05:00

Inexplicable fire burning from the muzzle of any/all firearms with every round.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 14 at 2017 7:35 PM

2017-01-14T19:35:01-05:00

Walking in front of a window during urban combat! Another is all the guys sitting in a tight group jackjawing over chow. Ya gotta keep 5 meters apart minimum period!!!

Response by CPT Eric Preister made Jan 15 at 2017 1:42 AM

2017-01-15T01:42:23-05:00

I love it how after firing the AT-4 without ear protection the guy can hear just fine. Did that by accident once during a live fire and ears rang for days.

Also really hate the lack of chain of command. I know know the Matthew Broderick Godzilla was not a military movie but the E5 was running the assault on Godzilla and reporting directly to the O6 in charge of the operation. Same movie the colonel's BDU's were wrinkled as crap. First day in the field everyone would still be wearing a pressed uniform. Also the M1s attacking Godzilla never fire. I guarantee a silver bullet or several would have ruined the big lizard's day. Sorry. It was a horrible movie all around but the way the military is portrayed in it kills me.

Response by SPC John Decker made Jan 26 at 2017 11:24 AM

2017-01-26T11:24:58-05:00

I agree with you. The salute is the biggie.

Response by CPT David Geasland made Jan 26 at 2017 11:28 AM

2017-01-26T11:28:46-05:00

Saying "Repeat" on the radio.

Response by PO1 Jeff Coon made Jan 26 at 2017 11:29 AM

2017-01-26T11:29:31-05:00

This one goes back a ways, but drove the ASW nerd in me nuts.

The Hunt for Red October: Dropping a torpedo from helo, then some admiral detonating it from the ship while looking out a window and telling an officer "... and we were never here."

My head nearly exploded typing that.

Response by CPT Earl George made Jan 26 at 2017 12:15 PM

2017-01-26T12:15:12-05:00

If the soldier in a military movie can through a hand grenade 60 yards, the NFL needs to be drafting him.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 26 at 2017 12:18 PM

2017-01-26T12:18:48-05:00

Marines standing around with their hands in their pockets.

Response by SGT Drew Clark made Jan 26 at 2017 12:30 PM

2017-01-26T12:30:17-05:00

Uniforms, mainly Dress

Response by TSgt Eddie Mixon made Jan 26 at 2017 3:33 PM

2017-01-26T15:33:43-05:00

How is it that the aircraft rushing to provide Close Air Support have slick wings as they are on the way and then deploy every weapon in the US inventory, always having the correct weapon left for the last target. Or the loaded planes that have a major dogfight on the way to target.

Response by LTC Lane Altenbaumer made Jan 26 at 2017 4:59 PM

2017-01-26T16:59:39-05:00

Intervals during movement to contact. Another neat Hollywood shot. Looks like a bunch of f*ck sticks wandering around in the woods.

Response by PO1 Mickey Hicks made Jan 26 at 2017 8:40 PM

2017-01-26T20:40:47-05:00

uniforms captain bars withe sergeant stripes come on!!!

Response by SSG Stan Morrison Jr made Jan 27 at 2017 6:42 AM

2017-01-27T06:42:28-05:00

Things that bother me? Hmmm, how about Fighter Jets that do manuevers that would kill the pilot in the plane? How about dropping fuel tanks and getting a massive fireball? The firebomb hand grenade? Getting shot and getting up? Running through explosions without getting blown up? The 600 round, 30 round mag? Could go on and on. Although, watch London has Fallen, towards the end when they are going to get the President, he actually changes mags after firing 30 RDS, I thought it was pretty impressive, for an actor!

Response by Sgt Justin Vickers made Jan 27 at 2017 10:00 AM

2017-01-27T10:00:58-05:00

"This here's my safety" *waggles index finger at the captain*

Response by SFC Michael Peterson made Feb 2 at 2017 2:28 PM

2017-02-02T14:28:41-05:00

Anyone watch the new TV series "Shooter", based off the movie? First, the Bob Lee Swagger character was sighting in a .338 Lapua at 1,800 yards on a pumpkin. He fired the shot and, with absolutely no movement of the scope, he watched the pumpkin explode from the impact. Then, when the actual sniper shot the Russian President, from 1,800+ yards, you heard the shot at the same time the bullet hit the target. I'm not sure what bullet/powder combination he was supposed to be using but, a Barnes precision 280 grain factory load takes about 3.2 seconds to travel 1,800 yards and, it would take the sound of the shot about 5 seconds to travel that same distance. There should have been roughly a two second delay between impact and report. Then, the bullet was supposedly a 400 grain "polymer" bullet that was so dense, the rifling didn't even leave marks on it. Epic FAIL!

Response by MSgt Sandra McKinney Dent made Nov 19 at 2017 11:39 PM

2017-11-19T23:39:27-05:00

Customs and Curtsies - go borrow a book or two about it when you are drafting your stories

Too much on RHIP (rank has its privileges) and not nearly enough on the RHIR, (rank has its responsibilities). While everyone knows of the person that took advantage for themselves, we also know of far more people that took RESPONSIBILITY over Privilege every single day.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2017 2:39 AM

2017-11-20T02:39:39-05:00

RED aka Retired but Extremely Deadly is a spy movie.They make a big mistake in one instance of their use of weapons. How long would this 50 caliber machine gun have fired in real life if they fired it like this? I have fired a 50 caliber machine gun but I've never fired it Non-Stop. How long do you think it would fire like this before the barrel would melt and the gun explode and kill its Gunner?
https://youtu.be/iiMNb99KaYk

Red (9/11) Movie CLIP - Chaos in the Parking Garage (2010) HD

RED movie clips: http://j.mp/1lEud1x BUY THE MOVIE: http://j.mp/1cD4hCE Don't miss the HOTTEST NEW TRAILERS: http://bit.ly/1u2y6pr CLIP DESCRIPTION: Victoria...

Response by CPT Lawrence Cable made Nov 20 at 2017 5:42 AM

2017-11-20T05:42:26-05:00

Colonels leading movement to contacts or assaults, firing laws inside a house or vehicle, blowing up bridges and buildings with 2lbs of C4, and adding a bullshit story line to an already heroic story, as in Lone Survivor, Battle of the Bulge or Pearl Harbor.

Response by SGT Frank Pritchett made Nov 20 at 2017 6:05 AM

2017-11-20T06:05:37-05:00

Historically there in-correct and everyone seems to be a bad ass.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 20 at 2017 6:38 AM

2017-11-20T06:38:14-05:00

Yea I’ll just put this right here lol... My pet peeve lol

Response by MSG Louis Alexander made Apr 21 at 2018 10:47 PM

2018-04-21T22:47:12-04:00

The one thing movie magic doesn’t cover -changing your drawls after a firefight!

Response by Lt Col Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 21 at 2018 11:21 PM

2018-04-21T23:21:00-04:00

Wrong uniforms poor weapons discipline and everyone packed together like sardines on patrol. I could go on but there is not enough bourbon in the Kentucky to make it go away

Response by MSG Louis Alexander made Apr 21 at 2018 11:33 PM

2018-04-21T23:33:08-04:00

The amount of political correctness in the film depicted, i.e. After capturing the shepherds, the team was discussing how to avoid releasing them and alerting the Taliban. A suggestion was made to naturalize the situation, camouflage the remains and depart the area before discovery, however, Wahlberg’s character insisted on the humane aspect and pleaded with the individuals to allow them to be tied up instead and we all know how that turned out. The lives of his team mates and mission were secondary in his eyes. He was so frozen with fear of how the news media may betray him that he opted to sacrifice the lives of his team mates. And as the story progressed, made himself out to be the hero of the story. He was right about one thing, no one knows what took place on that mountain other then he was the “Only Survivor”.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Apr 21 at 2018 11:51 PM

2018-04-21T23:51:01-04:00

The cussing and the swearing. However, I have never seen combat. I served, defended and protected this great nation of ours: during the Cold War.

Response by Maj John Bell made Apr 22 at 2018 2:41 PM

2018-04-22T14:41:29-04:00

Millions in movie budgets and they can't pay a vet $20,000 to make sure uniforms are correct, haircuts, are correct, that rank insignia is correct, etc. etc. etc.

Response by SGM Bill Frazer made Apr 22 at 2018 10:02 PM

2018-04-22T22:02:33-04:00

That's 1- magazines that never run dry as you are being over run, never missing a shot even with the incoming fire is so heavy you can see is another.

Response by SPC Jim Nemeth made Nov 26 at 2018 3:12 PM

2018-11-26T15:12:21-05:00

Cluster fucking. As amateur as it can get.

Response by CPT Brad Wilson made Nov 26 at 2018 7:09 PM

2018-11-26T19:09:10-05:00

It never fails formation runs singing cadences in one of the first scenes even on FOB’s in combat zones

Response by SGT Jeff Hanson made Nov 26 at 2018 11:06 PM

2018-11-26T23:06:42-05:00

Until certain officers stop returning a salute like it’s a shark fin in the middle of their face, I will forgive actors.......but I do feel your pain.

Response by Sgt Andrew Pouliot made Nov 27 at 2018 3:35 AM

2018-11-27T03:35:06-05:00

The one thing I've noticed a lot in action films, not necessarily just military/war films, is when guns fire but the bolt or slide doesn't go back and no spent brass appears; or how guns click and snap and rattle every time they're raised or drawn, that grinds my gears so much

Response by SSG Michael Raysses made Nov 27 at 2018 8:40 AM

2018-11-27T08:40:54-05:00

Lotta great military flics out there boys.... but I'd have to say the one thing that stands out?.. is when you see a military insignia/rank designation WORN INCORRECTLY!!!.... THAT pisses me off!!... but other than that?.... I don't go into a military flic to nit pick it... I watch them cuz their good.... been some bad ones too... but no real complaints!... HOOAH!... SSG Mike Raysses, USAR-Ret....

Response by MAJ Keith FitzPatrick, CPIM, CSCP made Nov 27 at 2018 10:35 AM

2018-11-27T10:35:10-05:00

I agree completely. One sloppy salute and they just drop out of character in my mind.

Response by Sgt Shane Coursey made Nov 27 at 2018 11:39 AM

2018-11-27T11:39:23-05:00

Uniforms that don’t fit!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 27 at 2018 11:57 AM

2018-11-27T11:57:04-05:00

Uniforms! It's so easy to get it right!

Response by SMSgt Lawrence McCarter made Nov 27 at 2018 12:36 PM

2018-11-27T12:36:18-05:00

When i see these guys in Rambo get out, head bands, improper haircuts, insignia, nothing Military about them on appearance or demeanor. Salutes that don't even resemble anything We were taught and also in times it would not even be used. Thing that even a person in basic training picked up they didn't. If they are going to depict Military people it would be nice if that's what they looked like but a lot of them don't ! One problem, the public member who have no Military background or even contact with Military people think that's how it is and it isn't !

Response by CPT Melanie Ryan made Nov 27 at 2018 1:21 PM

2018-11-27T13:21:43-05:00

When they act like Day 1 boots but have been in a while, such as when they over emphasize "sir!" after every sentence

Response by MAJ Bob Firth made Nov 27 at 2018 1:34 PM

2018-11-27T13:34:26-05:00

Complete clusterfuck tactical movements.

Response by SSG Grant Hansen made Nov 27 at 2018 1:59 PM

2018-11-27T13:59:19-05:00

I don't like it in any movie where they intentionally make the guns seem quieter than they really are and people aren't complaining that their ears are ringing after shooting without ear protection.

Response by SGT Michael Neese made Nov 27 at 2018 2:50 PM

2018-11-27T14:50:09-05:00

For me, it’s when they put the Squad Heavy Weapon on point.
Yeah, I really want my M-60 out of action right at the beginning of the ambush.

Response by SPC Frank Robinson made Nov 27 at 2018 2:51 PM

2018-11-27T14:51:29-05:00

Army medic 1971 ,76. Always Special Forces person looks like they've been pumping steroids. Served with quite a few and they were about my size about a hundred 35 pounds. In the movies always portrayed them is pumping iron all day long. Being that size all buffed up try and crawl into a spider hole

Response by SGT Michael Neese made Nov 27 at 2018 2:55 PM

2018-11-27T14:55:36-05:00

We used to have fun with the radio.
The Commo Track A-40 would call me Tank A-15.

A-15, this is A-40, Radio Check, over.
A-40, this is A-15, I read you Lickin Chicken, Hot Mama. over.
A-15, this is A-40, I read you upside down. Turn your radio, over.
A-40, this is A-15, Out.
Stuff like that

Response by MSgt Johnson Steve made Nov 27 at 2018 4:43 PM

2018-11-27T16:43:24-05:00

I’m with you on this.

Response by PO1 Scott Armitage made Nov 27 at 2018 4:57 PM

2018-11-27T16:57:58-05:00

I can over look a lot of things in a movie, but I agree. Get the f@&$ing salute right! Basics. Bloody basics.

Response by LCDR Tim McKenzie made Nov 27 at 2018 5:47 PM

2018-11-27T17:47:48-05:00

1. Pilots always flying with O2 masks off and visors up. 2. Navy and Marines referring to helicopters as “choppers.” They are Helos in the sea services. 3. Helo and multi-engine Pilots with boom mikes about 2 inches from their lips. All anyone would hear is the aircraft noise not the pilots voice (boom mikes should touch the lips). Pilots using 2 hands to hold a stick.

Response by LCDR Tim McKenzie made Nov 27 at 2018 5:57 PM

2018-11-27T17:57:28-05:00

My biggest pet peeve extends beyond movies. Its the term fighter jets. I may be the only person who noticed that Wolf Blitzer coined the term during Desert Storm. Prior to that they were: Fighters or Fighter Planes. Is the P-51 a Fighter Prop? Is the B-2 a Bomber Jet or C-13O a cargo prop? It sounds stupid. Its too bad because this ship has sailed. The term was adopted and now everyone uses it. I still believe I’m the only one who realized that dirt bag Blitzer coined it. I had a friend who carried Wolf in his USMC CH-46. He says Blitzer refused to wear a cranial. The Crew Chief said it was a regulation. Blitzer threatened him and said, “Do you know who I am!” He didn’t want his comb over messed up. Tool.

Response by MAJ Charlie Thompson made Nov 27 at 2018 8:02 PM

2018-11-27T20:02:02-05:00

Me too!!!!!

Response by Malawach Jachnun made Nov 27 at 2018 8:12 PM

2018-11-27T20:12:53-05:00

War tends to be very hearing friendly in most movies.
The complete lack of earplugs or any hearing protection.
To mention a few more.
-Immortal stamina and energy.
-Lungs that breath like nothing happened even after climbing a mountain.
-No sweat
-Blast shockwaves make people fly into safety.
-People don't have to drink water.
-In fire fights people only know how to stand or crouch and awesomely jump forward in Max Payne style and land like they just landed on pillows.
-People controll gravity.
-Underground close quarters fire fights don't suck oxygen away.
-No one needs a knee pad.
-People has no metabolism.
-Bullets don't ricochet.
-Gear and ammo has no weight and need no space to carry.
-It's all fun.
-There is a "good" guy.

But my favorite is.
"How about the lining?
-Tactical."

Response by SPC Kenneth Staley made Nov 27 at 2018 8:52 PM

2018-11-27T20:52:47-05:00

Or they all huddle in a nice tight group

Response by SGT David Fuzie made Nov 27 at 2018 9:26 PM

2018-11-27T21:26:00-05:00

Most of the things that tick me off have been mentioned, but one thing that ticks me off is seeing the actor or actors in uniform outdoors, with the leading actors all uncovered. I know it’s Hollywood and the actor needs to be seen and recognized, but how many active duty military people actually run around outdoors uncovered while on duty? It was noted in an earlier post that the grooming does not meet military standards, and removing the cap/hat sure doesn’t help!

Response by Harold Rochester made Nov 27 at 2018 9:32 PM

2018-11-27T21:32:51-05:00

grenades hand or launcher, that when they explode look like someone blew up a gas tank, explosions are dirty and shrapnel is the enemy not the big ball of Hollywood fire.

Umm miniguns that sound or shoot like M60’s... it’s a mini gun! Why take anything away from it.

Over the top motto bullshit, movies that are so unrealistic that you know a fobbit was the military consultant or director.

Uniforms and gear. Oh look a soldier wearing marine digi’s. Calling marines soldiers, seeing multi-cam, tiger strip, ACU, BDU mash ups.

Response by PV2 Ray Gotsch made Nov 27 at 2018 9:36 PM

2018-11-27T21:36:58-05:00

Calling an NCO sir

Response by CPO Nate S. made Nov 27 at 2018 10:04 PM

2018-11-27T22:04:42-05:00

I wonder if at the front end credits of every "based on a true story" military movie that the following might be stated:

"Some scenes in this film, while depicted for cinematography purposes ONLY, they don't depict the actual optimal military strategy or tactics our fighting men and women are highly trained to perform that are designed to save or preserve lives in actual combat. We have tried to make the scenes as close to reality as possible, but in some case to draw your attention to the more serious sub-texts that you will forgive our desire tell a story that needs to be told regarding our brave men and women and the meaning behind the scenes are in full alignment."

Seems to me we, as military men and women, know the fau pax issues, but we still go to see these movies. The issue is with us not demanding some sort of disclaimer from Hollywood to be clear about where they have taken license. Often times I have read biographies, autobiographies or other historical accounts from multiple sources to have perspective before or when I don't time before, after such "based on a true story" movies. Often times, I learn things from the books or factual cross-referenced articles that I actually thought were more important to include in such productions than the scenes that were included.

Bottom line, I agree that some things piss me off too when they are flagrant misrepresentations that even the most uninformed should question. The "sun visor salute" I agree is one.

Finally, my father was in Korean War. So, I fell in love with MASH. As a Navy Corpsmen, I found MASH entertaining and at times there were carefully woven elements of truth between the humor and story plots. I knew several vets from that era and some MASH context were subtly -real, at least in messaging about the hell of war. Another movie I like is - In Harm's Way. Yet, John Wayne, offers some miserable salutes in that movie, especially since he is depicting a Naval Officer. Yet, I have never heard people speak badly about this - American. Again, advisers advise, I am sure the salutes piss them off too. Unless we begin censor movies and boycott them for "poor salutes" the lazy movie producer with not want to make changes and as long as "advisers" take funds for their services and let slide the salute in favor or some of the more important messages, like trust and honor, it issue as important as it is will remain secondary. I know I hate it too, but it is a reality. Not one any of us like - bottom line. But, one that exists, sorry to say.

I wonder if we as vets should create in our respective communities a "Military movies with vets night or matinee." How interesting would it be for vets to be able to share their experiences, if say a bunch of Navy vets (e.g. Corpsmen) that lived during say the Korean War viewed a Korean War movie with non-military viewers and then spoke about their own experiences after the movie with the assembled public. Could this build a bridge that needs to be built.

Keep in mind movies like Patton, to Hell and Back and MacAuthur are designed to tell a story and in each one their is some technical incorrectness, yet the elements of the story being told are made. We know what is often "artistic license" vs military accuracy. There have been times when movies like Twelve O'Clock High or the Buffalo Solider favor the drama of making a point vs some small technical flaws. I then to look past the flaws, especially with my grandson (17), as he ask questions and we discuss the deeper issues such movies are attempting to communicate.

Just some thoughts!

Response by PVT Eric Moquin made Nov 27 at 2018 11:02 PM

2018-11-27T23:02:35-05:00

Racking a semi auto Barrett .50 cal after each shot, like it was a bolt action. In other words, gross miss manipulation and use of weapons systems.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 27 at 2018 11:13 PM

2018-11-27T23:13:32-05:00

The Cry Babying complaining always bothered me.

Response by SFC Kevin Turner made Nov 28 at 2018 9:18 AM

2018-11-28T09:18:09-05:00

Wrong Rank from picutre to picture, If your gonna represent the Military get your crap straight and represent uss correctly !!!

Response by SPC Eric Bennett made Nov 28 at 2018 9:40 AM

2018-11-28T09:40:07-05:00

Use of Jeeps in current era

Response by Capt Bob Abbott made Nov 28 at 2018 9:54 AM

2018-11-28T09:54:02-05:00

Depiction? that every vet has PTSD. that frustrates the crap out of me and really gets my PTSD going. ;-)

If we're talking about militaria, then for me it's either haircuts or the dress uniform. I was an extra on Homeland, wearing a USMC Major class As with an Army nameplate and some Navy and Army ribbons on the rack. Sigh. Oh, and they had an Air Force Captain sitting at the table in the Situation Room. ugh.

Response by LTC John Griscom made Nov 28 at 2018 10:25 AM

2018-11-28T10:25:11-05:00

Screwups on the uniform. A little research never hurts. Get a technical advisor who knows what is going on.

Response by SGT Nicki Gollob made Nov 28 at 2018 11:24 AM

2018-11-28T11:24:03-05:00

My favorite is Rambo lol The scene where he holds the M60 and his leg doesn't fall off from the shrapnel lol It is also amazing how there are endless rounds in a weapon It drives me crazu lol

Response by SSG Larry Panaro made Nov 28 at 2018 3:12 PM

2018-11-28T15:12:53-05:00

Formations moving like a wal-mart mob on black friday.

Response by SSG Fred Welch made Nov 28 at 2018 3:28 PM

2018-11-28T15:28:30-05:00

Wrong uniform (The Hurt Locker)

Response by Sgt James Strauss made Nov 28 at 2018 3:44 PM

2018-11-28T15:44:36-05:00

Running around in the background in formation and full gear at every bomb scene, natural catastrophe or alien invasion Hollywood comes up with. Yeah, because that's what we do.
Oh, and room clearing....don't even get me started.

Response by PO3 Ben Phillips made Nov 28 at 2018 6:56 PM

2018-11-28T18:56:55-05:00

When their gig line is off.

Response by SPC Eric Rudy made Nov 28 at 2018 7:46 PM

2018-11-28T19:46:05-05:00

This is probably the worst picture to use for this article. Marcus Luttrell “The Lone survivor” was the movie advisor. On another note I read sometimes they make mistakes on purpose or wear rank wrong etc. I’m not sure why.

Response by TSgt John Straub made Nov 29 at 2018 4:44 AM

2018-11-29T04:44:58-05:00

There are a lot of reasons why movies and tv shows have a tendency to portray the military so inaccurately. One is cooperation or lack of cooperation of the various branches of the DoD. Without anyone to provide more accurate information as to how certain specialties need to be portrayed, you will find a lot of things wrong. Hollywood, is all about the bottom line and making money. Many producers just do not want to spend the kind of money needed to get it right. While there are many glaring examples of the military being shown inaccurately, first one that come to mind for me was the pilot show of Stargate SG-1, where they had a SSgt wearing a set of gold leafs on shoulders depicting the rank of Major, while wearing SSgt stripes. After that first show, the producers pretty much got it right for the 10 years the show was on the air. Same with Startgate Atlantis. At that point, and due to the positive way that the Air Force was portrayed in the movie, there was some serious cooperation between the Air Force, by way of equipment, bases and personnel. Even the Navy provided big time assistance with the filming of a Nuclear Sub at one of the polar ice caps.
When a movie is going to be produced that will have a negative story line or one that is so ridiculous about any branch of the military, they decrease their chances of assistance. And some writers and those who do the screen plays just refuse to have their product changed in any way. Another factor to consider is the length of a movie compared to the book. How many movies have you seen be it military or another subject where it is so different that you wonder if it is the same story line. Again it is cost, bottom line. Also keep in mind that a lot of things done by the military will not be allowed to be accurately portrayed in a movie, to keep what we do from being publicized. Even minor things like using your Military ID card worn as a badge is not something we actually do. We had other means of identifying our reason for being in areas with restricted access. Then there is the story line itself. It has to be entertaining and show as much as possible in a 1:45 to 2 plus hour movie? Can't show every single detail of what is done in that short amount of time, to short cuts have to be taken. Instead of getting annoyed about how your branch is portrayed, just sit back laugh at the stupid things you see and enjoy the movie.

Response by SSgt Harold Cotten made Nov 29 at 2018 2:13 PM

2018-11-29T14:13:34-05:00

The Sergeant or Staff Sergeant who looks old enough to be Sergeant Major.

Response by Cpl Michael Mead made Nov 29 at 2018 6:49 PM

2018-11-29T18:49:53-05:00

The uniforms. Jon Cena in "the Marine" first thing wearing an army cap not a marine cover. Took the DVD out and returned to Redbox.

Response by SSG James Draughn made Nov 29 at 2018 8:54 PM

2018-11-29T20:54:01-05:00

i have to disagree with the hurry up and wait not being depicted as that always bugged me, jarhead nailed it

Response by SSG James Draughn made Nov 29 at 2018 9:04 PM

2018-11-29T21:04:16-05:00

i challenge every person writing in and reading this topic to watch the new predator and try not to turn it off while jumping out of a 10 story window..... so bad you would swear it was a wayans brothers spoof...

all of these complaints and much more await for your viewing displeasure...... perfect opportunity completely missed, completely.

Response by Maj Private RallyPoint Member made Nov 29 at 2018 11:31 PM

2018-11-29T23:31:34-05:00

There was a time in the late 2000’s when the Air Force did EVERYTHING! Iron Man, Tansformers, etc. Every single special forces unit and operative was an AF unit. I mean, great PR campaign but come on! Sorry chair force, that isn’t where the real action is at.

Response by SGT Donald Croswhite made Dec 2 at 2018 3:40 AM

2018-12-02T03:40:10-05:00

Barrel awareness, and gernades that make fireballs.

Response by SrA Earl Jackson made Dec 2 at 2018 12:22 PM

2018-12-02T12:22:53-05:00

For me, it's the basics. Getting the salute wrong always annoys me, but the long hair, facial hair and uniforms are the easiest things to get right. The technical stuff and special effects I can let slide because it's a movie or tv show. But at least try to look the part.

Response by Cpl Ben Crosby made Dec 2 at 2018 12:31 PM

2018-12-02T12:31:50-05:00

"over and out". You can't be both, pick one.

Response by SGT Ed Walden made Dec 2 at 2018 5:11 PM

2018-12-02T17:11:22-05:00

What drives me insane in movies is that every "soldier" is running around firing their weapon, every weapon that isn't a pistol on full auto or in bursts. Sure it's more cinematic but it completely ruins my suspension of disbelief.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Dec 2 at 2018 9:08 PM

2018-12-02T21:08:50-05:00

The uniform. They always get it wrong. And it's amazing how badly the military is depicted that we torture our own people for political reasons.

Response by SFC Vernon McNabb made Dec 13 at 2018 6:02 PM

2018-12-13T18:02:13-05:00

Dude, it's a movie. It's sole purpose is to entertain the masses. If it was a documentary, depicting real life, I could see getting a little upset. Actors are there to entertain us, not worry about their gig line. Also, Hollywood is restricted from portraying military uniforms in exactly the same way as the real Soldiers do.

Response by SGT Kent Bredbenner made Dec 20 at 2018 1:24 PM

2018-12-20T13:24:21-05:00

You just have to remember that unless the movie is endorsed by the military, there will be many mistakes. On movies where the Defense Department provides assistance to filmmakers, the department emphasizes the need to show military uniforms correctly

Response by SGT Jerrold Shank made Jan 16 at 2019 10:58 AM

2019-01-16T10:58:10-05:00

During Good Morning Vietnam and the CSM is wearing the Blue Infantry Cord on the wrong shoulder. Something so simple and so overlooked on a CSM.

Response by SPC Mara Manzer (Spurgin) made Jan 16 at 2019 2:36 PM

2019-01-16T14:36:27-05:00

The wearing of the beret. Everytime I have seen it worn in a movie/TV it looks like a damn mushroom on their head!!! Can they really not see how wrong and ridiculous it looks? It can't be that difficult to find a consultant to teach them how to properly shape and wear a beret.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 16 at 2019 3:09 PM

2019-01-16T15:09:11-05:00

In the Netflix TV series sand castles oh, they had an M60 tank in operation Iraqi Freedom that wasn't being ground guided. Also, they had Mr AP vehicles that were not available for another six years. Also, the Infantry unit that was clearing the building was wearing a civil Affairs patch just because it said Airborne doesn't signify they are 11bravos. After 20 minutes, I stopped watching the show

Response by PVT Mark Zehner made Jan 16 at 2019 3:23 PM

2019-01-16T15:23:11-05:00

The same thing that bothers me in cop movies either everyone is an idiot or they are constantly in a battle throughout their carrers! I had a grandfather in World War 2 and he looked at me one time and said " I didn't fire my weapon as much as the have and I landed on Normandy Beach on D day!"

Response by SPC Jerry Jones made Jan 21 at 2019 7:08 AM

2019-01-21T07:08:28-05:00

Has to be the salute. If they get that wrong and do a Benny Hill or "blocking the sun" salute, the entire movie is ruined for me.
Salutes, grooming, uniforms and properly addressing someone by their rank....the absolute basics that every soldier learns from day one. If you can't get that right, then the movie will annoy the hell out of every Veteran.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 21 at 2019 11:03 AM

2019-01-21T11:03:10-05:00

It's not just military movies, but all movies in general. The fact that Hollywood can't seem to differentiate between an automatic weapon and a semi-automatic one drives me crazy. They further complicate the issue with bottomless magazines. This leads to the general civilian populace being ignorant on basic firearm reality.

As far as military movies specifically go, uniforms almost always stand out to me, then the behavior of the troops. It's hard to watch a film by Hollywood now that doesn't involve someone running out to be a hero all by themselves, or watching a single person clearing room after room in a five story building. When I was in, we would sit around in the barracks and pick out all the stupid/unrealistic shit the actors were doing in movies. We didn't go into it with that intention, but it just happened.

Response by LTC Gary Earls made Jan 21 at 2019 2:14 PM

2019-01-21T14:14:04-05:00

Firing hundreds of rounds and never reloading. :-) Or pulling the pin on a hand grenade with their teeth.

Response by CAPT Michael Toleno made Jan 21 at 2019 3:52 PM

2019-01-21T15:52:56-05:00

I guess the movie salutes don't bother me too much (a little, sure) because I see it done so poorly in real life.

Response by CAPT Michael Toleno made Jan 21 at 2019 4:39 PM

2019-01-21T16:39:33-05:00

What bothers me most is the depiction of ALL senior–subordinate relationships as if they were drill instructors and recruits at boot camp.
●The subordinates render too many courtesies
●The subordinates stand at attention too often in the presence of the senior
●The senior says, "that's an order" too frequently
●The senior makes or threatens to make the subordinate do push-ups or a menial task
Generally, military personnel and relationships are depicted in a very stereotypical way; military personnel are one-dimensional, arrogant, authoritarian, and simple-minded. I'm sure there's a shorter way of expressing what I'm trying to describe.

Response by SSgt Daniel d'Errico made Jan 27 at 2019 12:18 AM

2019-01-27T00:18:09-05:00

The air to air rearming of a fighter aircraft, like in "Iron Egale". It was so amazing to see an F-16 first without weapons up loaded, then suddemly have weapons appear. And after expending those weapons, having more weapons magically appear, to blast the bad guys!

Response by MAJ Michael Poplawski made Jan 28 at 2019 4:14 PM

2019-01-28T16:14:57-05:00

Hollywood loves those multi-barrel guns, but when fired they sound like a regular machine gun. What was the point of the other barrels? Let'em hear an A10 firing then they'll know.

Response by MGySgt Jerry Suarez made Feb 8 at 2019 10:27 PM

2019-02-08T22:27:23-05:00

The grooming standards while in a dress uniform!!!! No haircut, and a mustache if one worn way out of regs...

Response by PO2 Jim Fine made Feb 16 at 2019 7:37 PM

2019-02-16T19:37:10-05:00

Marines calling for a medic!

Corpsman Up or Doc is correct!

Medic is not correct.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2019 8:14 PM

2019-06-22T20:14:14-04:00

In Lone Survivor I there are two people in the background standing at parade rest for each other

Response by SFC Ken Reynolds made Aug 27 at 2019 3:15 AM

2019-08-27T03:15:04-04:00

Mushroom berets and handgrenades that blow like they have napalm.

Response by SSgt Gary Veach made Oct 7 at 2019 6:30 PM

2019-10-07T18:30:40-04:00

There are a lot of things, but as much as haircuts, uniform issues, awards issues and general bearing piss me off, the main thing I hate is having some POS writer/director/actor put shit into a patriots mouth to make a political point they couldn’t make with the truth.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 12:49 AM

2019-10-09T00:49:46-04:00

The 6 mile per hour grenade explosion. Grenade lands, take off running, jump, fly 10 feet from blast. Get back on feet rejoin fight. No blast injury and hearing is fine. Mine is bad from small arms and noisy trucks. Actors are the best

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 12:54 AM

2019-10-09T00:54:00-04:00

Another one is walking around with a cigar/ cigarette in your mouth, trashed uniform, telling officer to f--k off. All officers are idiots and have no spine. Riiiiight!

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made Oct 9 at 2019 10:40 AM

2019-10-09T10:40:30-04:00

The worst example ever (IMHO) was not in a movie but in an episode of Law and Order SVU. It was the scene where an actor was depicted as a Marine Gunny and was wearing chevrons meant for Dress Blues on his “Greens” uniform. That one just floored me.

Response by Sgt Peter Schlesiona made Oct 9 at 2019 10:52 AM

2019-10-09T10:52:56-04:00

Have to add another one: any movie depicting Michelle Rodriguez as a soldier, Marine, etc. Always badest of the bad, toughest of the tough, able to take down any 12 of the enemy with a toothpick - and almost always with her go-to facial expression: grim and grumpy.

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 11:08 AM

2019-10-09T11:08:56-04:00

I see this more in the low budget b movies and t. V. Shows but when they walj around with the whole mandrin collar lapels thing wrapped around their neck it just looks gross It really ocercooks my grits when i see it on an AARP commerical I get ticked with the squad movements and spacing crap too but that can be explained away because of production camera view angles and stuff but the artillery grenades or the flower bomb grenades and rpg's I've no excuse for

Response by PO1 Norris Harrington made Oct 9 at 2019 11:15 AM

2019-10-09T11:15:48-04:00

I hate seeing guys covered indoors and uncovered outdoors.

Response by SFC Familia Gonzalez made Oct 9 at 2019 11:37 AM

2019-10-09T11:37:16-04:00

“Roger that.” Unfortunately, I also heard it in the Army, not just in the movies. Drove me f@cken nuts!

Response by Sgt Dan Catlin made Oct 9 at 2019 3:27 PM

2019-10-09T15:27:54-04:00

Epaulets flipped up over collars- often unintentional as in some scenes they get it right. But sometimes it seems they think that's how the uniform is supposed to be worn! Every epaulet flipped over! I can't watch that ... just can't!

Response by PO2 Roger Langford made Oct 9 at 2019 4:49 PM

2019-10-09T16:49:21-04:00

The blunt truth. Civilian movie audiences don’t give a fuck about this small-minded crap that annoys you military assholes.

Response by SPC Owen Littenberg made Oct 9 at 2019 5:45 PM

2019-10-09T17:45:40-04:00

Oh right hundred.... oh isnt a time... saying zero right isnt very difficult.

Response by SPC Owen Littenberg made Oct 9 at 2019 5:46 PM

2019-10-09T17:46:52-04:00

Oh eight hundred....

Response by SPC Ted Arnold made Oct 9 at 2019 7:18 PM

2019-10-09T19:18:48-04:00

Rambo, driving, firing and reloading a t-72 is a good one. I’d rather them be a little off with a uniform, unless the actor is a vet. Long range pistol battles, while having a rifle strapped to their backs.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 9 at 2019 8:55 PM

2019-10-09T20:55:23-04:00

Obvious uniform mistake like the coller up, wrong patches, ect...

Response by Cpl Edward Rinehart made Oct 9 at 2019 10:50 PM

2019-10-09T22:50:19-04:00

Suppressors on full auto and they never fail.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 10 at 2019 12:57 AM

2019-10-10T00:57:26-04:00

The saluting is just as jacked up as most service members. I hate not seeing a straight arm and wrist to the eyebrow. The uniforms dont bug me because they have to mess it up one way or another so they arnt impersonating that rank.

Response by SPC David Dupey made Oct 10 at 2019 8:01 AM

2019-10-10T08:01:01-04:00

Yes you are Wright it is a disrespect to veterans and should be addressed to movie makers .

Response by MSgt Sidney Lichter made Oct 20 at 2019 11:13 PM

2019-10-20T23:13:34-04:00

Someone in uniform or portraying a vet says "I WON this or that medal". Only civilians say a member of the forces WON a valor medal; we say "I RECEIVED or WAS AWARDED this for ...".

Response by Lt Col Kevin Calhoun made May 12 at 2020 12:37 PM

2020-05-12T12:37:44-04:00

Lines like, "That's just like the AMRAAM launchpad on the Stealth." -Will Smith, Independence day

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2020 9:18 PM

2020-05-12T21:18:16-04:00

Enlisted soldiers unable to function without an officer

Response by PO3 Huey Heard made May 13 at 2020 5:21 PM

2020-05-13T17:21:38-04:00

Navy personal that salute inside or uncovered. Then wearing your cover at sea. You would lose it very quickly in a 30 wind.

Response by SSG Daniel Frankell made May 16 at 2020 10:02 PM

2020-05-16T22:02:51-04:00

My DS said we were looking for Indians when we were being taught to salute.

Response by CPO Scott Husby made May 20 at 2020 12:23 PM

2020-05-20T12:23:06-04:00

I agree.....pisses me off.

Response by PO3 Al Shimkus made May 20 at 2020 8:00 PM

2020-05-20T20:00:47-04:00

Yup me too. Just grinds me

Response by TSgt John Straub made May 31 at 2020 3:41 AM

2020-05-31T03:41:21-04:00

Well, in a movie like "The Last Survivor" which I thought was a great movie along with 13 Hours. I look at most military movies for entertainment. They do not get everything right, and I don't think they are supposed to. If you saw Air Force 1 with Harrison Ford, that was filled with inaccuracies, for good reason. You never show exact information about what is inside of that 707/747 to the enemy. Some of the things were damn close. But no cargo bay doors opening at the reat, no escape pod. and no parachutes. A few other things too. But they were the most obvious. Stargate SG-1, a series I completely enjoyed only had in my mind one major infraction. They show a SSgt escorting Col. O'Niell from the elevator. Now that issue was the SSgt was wearing the correct stripes, but also had a Majors oak leaf on the epulets. After that, they did their best to follow the proper protocols and uniforms following what we knew back in the day as AF-35-10. And I understand that they used actual members of the Security Forces as extras.

Response by SSgt Jack Gilbert made Sep 26 at 2020 3:08 PM

2020-09-26T15:08:10-04:00

Two easily rectified screwups really drive me nuts: Haircuts and rank insignia that are pinned on sideways.... If you’re gonna make a military movie, for God’s sake hire a veteran as the uniform advisor...!

Response by CPT David Geasland made Sep 26 at 2020 3:39 PM

2020-09-26T15:39:41-04:00

RTP = Repeat that.

Response by SGT Tom Recupero made Sep 27 at 2020 12:33 PM

2020-09-27T12:33:25-04:00

I’m just going to shoot this gas tank and cause a 200lb C4 type of explosion

Response by SPC Kenneth James made Sep 27 at 2020 10:12 PM

2020-09-27T22:12:08-04:00

Quicke answer that one man can do it all we need our team