Gardens of Stone 1987
"The story of the war at home, and the people who lived through it."
Francis Ford Coppola's *Gardens of Stone (1987)* weaves a poignant drama against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, focusing on the quiet heroism of those left behind.
Director: Francis Ford Coppola
Cast
James Caan
Sgt. Clell Hazard
Anjelica Huston
Samantha Davis
James Earl Jones
Sgt. Maj.'Goody' Nelson
D. B. Sweeney
Jackie Willow
Dean Stockwell
Capt. Homer Thomas
Mary Stuart Masterson
Rachel Feld
Dick Anthony Williams
Slasher Williams
Lonette McKee
Betty Rae
Sam Bottoms
Lt. Webber
Elias Koteas
Pete Deveber
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Gardens of Stone (1987) about?
The film follows Sergeant Clell Hazard, a Vietnam veteran who trains young soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery during the war era. Struggling with his own inability to return to combat, he mentors Jackie Willow, the idealistic son of a fallen comrade, preparing him for the harsh realities ahead.
Who directed Gardens of Stone?
Francis Ford Coppola directed *Gardens of Stone*. Known for his epic storytelling in films like *The Godfather*, Coppola brings a contemplative yet gripping approach to this war-era drama.
Who stars in Gardens of Stone?
The film features James Caan as Sergeant Clell Hazard, alongside Anjelica Huston, James Earl Jones, D. B. Sweeney, and Mary Stuart Masterson in pivotal roles.
Is Gardens of Stone (1987) worth watching?
With its emotionally charged narrative and stellar cast, *Gardens of Stone* offers a unique perspective on the Vietnam War's lingering impact. While not as widely known as some of Coppola's other works, its themes of sacrifice and duty make it a compelling watch for fans of historical dramas.
How long is Gardens of Stone?
The runtime of *Gardens of Stone* is 111 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
Gardens of Stone (1987): A Vietnam-Era Drama of Duty and Loss — Full Movie Info
Francis Ford Coppola's *Gardens of Stone (1987)* weaves a poignant drama against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, focusing on the quiet heroism of those left behind. Set at Arlington National Cemetery, the film follows Sergeant Clell Hazard—a battle-hardened veteran who trains fresh recruits while grappling with the ghosts of fallen comrades. Among them is Jackie Willow, the passionate son of a slain soldier, whose innocence and determination draw Hazard into a complex mentorship. As the weight of duty and loss bears down, the story explores themes of sacrifice, the cost of war, and the fragile line between duty and personal grief. With stunning visuals and raw emotional depth, Coppola crafts a reflective meditation on memory and legacy.
Led by James Caan's commanding performance as Hazard, the ensemble cast—including Anjelica Huston, James Earl Jones, and D. B. Sweeney—brings authenticity to this understated yet powerful narrative. The film's title, inspired by the hallowed grounds of Arlington, serves as a metaphor for the enduring scars of conflict. *Gardens of Stone (1987)* stands as a tribute to the unsung heroes of wartime, blending historical weight with deeply human storytelling.
