The premise for the film is genius and the film was incredible. You must know that I am a 62 year old Vietnam Vet (Air Cav pilot) and wept through the entire film, but I knew I would do so but really wanted the experience of seeing this film. I had seen the trailer many times since I am a trailer checker and that is my work. I did not read the book, but in reading other reviews, it seems that the ending was not true to the ending in the book. Frankly, I felt the entire film was outstanding but the ending left me cold and disappointed. I would have chosen a different ending, and suspect that the ending in the book would be much more satisfying. Nevertheless, you MUST see this film. But bring a couple hankies or a box of Kleenex.