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Da 5 Bloods 2020

Budget

$45M

Runtime

154 min

Language

English

English

Four Vietnam War veterans—Paul, Otis, Eddie, and Melvin—return to the jungles decades after the conflict, seeking the remains of their fallen squad leader and a cache of hidden gold. Joined by Paul’s estranged son, the mission forces them to confront the physical and emotional wounds of war, the complexities of their past actions, and the lasting impact of the conflict on themselves and their families. The journey becomes a test of their loyalties and a reckoning with the heavy legacy of the war.

Four Vietnam War veterans—Paul, Otis, Eddie, and Melvin—return to the jungles decades after the conflict, seeking the remains of their fallen squad leader and a cache of hidden gold. Joined by Paul’s estranged son, the mission forces them to confront the physical and emotional wounds of war, the complexities of their past actions, and the lasting impact of the conflict on themselves and their families. The journey becomes a test of their loyalties and a reckoning with the heavy legacy of the war.

Does Da 5 Bloods have end credit scenes?

No!

Da 5 Bloods does not have end credit scenes. You can leave when the credits roll.

Meet the Full Cast and Actors of Da 5 Bloods

Explore the complete cast of Da 5 Bloods, including both lead and supporting actors. Learn who plays each character, discover their past roles and achievements, and find out what makes this ensemble cast stand out in the world of film and television.


Ratings and Reviews for Da 5 Bloods

See how Da 5 Bloods is rated across major platforms like IMDb, Metacritic, and TMDb. Compare audience scores and critic reviews to understand where Da 5 Bloods stands among top-rated movies in its genre.


Echo Score

The Movie Echo Score

80

Da 5 Bloods delivers a potent blend of artistic ambition and emotional depth, tempered by occasional narrative looseness. Critics consistently praise the film’s visual flair and Delroy Lindo’s nuanced performance, while some note that monologues and tonal shifts can disrupt its pace. Viewers similarly commend the cinematography and ensemble work, though a few cite uneven editing and excessive length. Overall, the film’s resonant themes and strong craft outweigh these limitations, yielding a powerful but imperfect experience.

The Movie Echo Score Breakdown for Da 5 Bloods

85
Echo Score

Art & Craft

In terms of art and craft, the film’s direction and cinematography consistently shine. Reviewers highlight striking camera angles and an elaborate visual texture that bring the Vietnam setting to life. However, shifting styles and extended monologues sometimes undermine editing cohesion. As a result, Da 5 Bloods stands out for its bold imagery while occasionally feeling stylistically scattered.

90
Echo Score

Character & Emotion

When it comes to character and emotion, the film excels in performance depth. Delroy Lindo’s nuanced portrayal anchors the story, and ensemble members deliver fervent chemistry that enhances emotional stakes. While a few critics find certain monologues redundant, most appreciate the blend of raw sentiment and interpersonal rapport. The result is a compelling character-driven core.

65
Echo Score

Story & Flow

In terms of story and flow, Da 5 Bloods offers an original historical perspective blended with adventure. Critics note its ambitious scope and impactful themes, but pacing suffers from lengthy monologues and tonal shifts that can hinder coherence. Despite uneven structure, the film maintains engagement through emotional resonance, delivering a thought-provoking narrative.

80
Echo Score

Sensory Experience

When evaluating the sensory experience, the film impresses with its vivid visual style and effective soundscapes. Many reviews praise immersive cinematography and textured audio design that enrich the setting. Nevertheless, some find the musical score’s transitions abrupt and the mixture of real-life footage occasionally distracting. Overall, the sensory elements enhance atmosphere despite minor discordances.

70
Echo Score

Rewatch Factor

In terms of rewatch value, the film offers substantial thematic depth that rewards multiple viewings. Reviewers mention layered historical references and complex character arcs that unfold further on repeat, though its lengthy runtime and dense monologues may deter some viewers. Despite these hurdles, the combination of emotional resonance and visual richness provides lasting appeal for engaged audiences.

Metacritic

82

Metascore

5.8

User Score

Rotten Tomatoes
review

92%

TOMATOMETER

review

53%

User Score

IMDb

6.5 /10

IMDb Rating

TMDB

65

%

User Score

Letterboxd

3.5

From 106 fan ratings

Movie Insider

1.00/5

From 1 fan rating

Take the Ultimate Da 5 Bloods Movie Quiz

Challenge your knowledge of Da 5 Bloods with this fun and interactive movie quiz. Test yourself on key plot points, iconic characters, hidden details, and memorable moments to see how well you really know the film.


Da 5 Bloods Quiz: Test your knowledge on the themes, characters, and events of Da 5 Bloods.

What historical figures are featured in the archival montage at the beginning of the film?

Awards & Nominations for Da 5 Bloods

Explore awards

Discover all the awards and nominations received by Da 5 Bloods, from Oscars to film festival honors. Learn how Da 5 Bloods and its cast and crew have been recognized by critics and the industry alike.


93rd Academy Awards 2021

Nomination

Music (Original Score)

74th British Academy Film Awards 2021

Clarke Peters
Nomination

Best Actor in a Supporting Role

Clarke Peters

26th Critics' Choice Awards 2021

Nomination

Best Picture

Spike Lee
Nomination

Best Director

Spike Lee
Delroy Lindo
Nomination

Best Actor

Delroy Lindo
Chadwick Boseman
Nomination

Best Supporting Actor

Chadwick Boseman
Nomination

Best Acting Ensemble

Nomination

Best Cinematography

27th Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards 2021

Chadwick Boseman
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Supporting Role

Chadwick Boseman
Chadwick Boseman
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Chadwick Boseman
Paul Walter Hauser
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Paul Walter Hauser
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Christine Lan
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Christine Lan
Norm Lewis
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Norm Lewis
Delroy Lindo
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Delroy Lindo
Jonathan Majors
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Jonathan Majors
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Jasper Pääkkönen
Clarke Peters
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Clarke Peters
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Jean Reno
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Jean Reno
Mélanie Thierry
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Mélanie Thierry
Isiah Whitlock Jr
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture

Isiah Whitlock Jr
Nomination

Outstanding Performance by a Stunt Ensemble in a Motion Picture

36th Artios Awards 2021

Nomination

Big Budget – Drama

46th Saturn Awards 2021

Nomination

Best Thriller Film Release

Delroy Lindo
Nomination

Best Actor in a Film

Delroy Lindo

Full Plot Summary and Ending Explained for Da 5 Bloods

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Read the complete plot summary of Da 5 Bloods, including all major events, twists, and the full ending explained in detail. Explore key characters, themes, hidden meanings, and everything you need to understand the story from beginning to end.


During the tumultuous period of the Vietnam War, a band of Black U.S. Army soldiers from the 1st Infantry Division, comprising Paul (Delroy Lindo), Otis (Clarke Peters), Eddie (Norm Lewis), Melvin (Isiah Whitlock Jr), and their squad leader Norman (Chadwick Boseman), whom they call the “Bloods,” discover the wreckage of a CIA airplane crash. Inside, they find a treasure trove: a cache of gold bars meant as recompense for the Lahu people for aiding in the fight against the Viet Cong. Tempted by this fortune, the Bloods decide to pocket the gold and bury it for later retrieval. Sadly, their plans take a tragic turn when Norman meets his end during a fierce Vietnamese counter-attack, and the aftermath leaves the squad unable to locate the gold due to a devastating napalm strike that erases crucial landmarks.

Fast forward to the present day, Paul, Otis, Eddie, and Melvin reunite in Ho Chi Minh City, spurred by news of a recent landslide that has unearthed the tail of the downed aircraft. With hope rekindled, they plot to recover both the coveted gold and Norman’s remains. During this passage of time, Otis reconnects with his former Vietnamese lover, Tiên (Y. Lan), who surprises him with the revelation that he is the father of her adult child. Tiên then introduces the squad to Desroche (Jean Reno), a French entrepreneur who offers his assistance in smuggling the gold once they manage to retrieve it.

As their adventure unfolds, Paul’s son David (Jonathan Majors), who has a strained relationship with his father, joins the team. They enlist the help of Vinh (who becomes their guide), venturing out into the countryside where a confrontation leads Paul to confront his own demons, revealing his struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder. At a hotel bar, David encounters Hedy (Mélanie Thierry), an activist leading a landmine clearance organization, adding another layer of complexity to their journey.

After bidding farewell to Vinh, who promises to return in a few days, the Bloods confront numerous dangers, particularly when Eddie succumbs to a landmine, tragically losing his life. A tense moment arises when David narrowly avoids a similar fate but is swiftly caught in a hostage situation with Paul, who grows increasingly paranoid about potential betrayals from outsiders.

The situation escalates when gunmen demand the treasure in exchange for Seppo, another group member captured during the chaos. The group faces a violent showdown, resulting in injuries and further casualties, including the death of Seppo at the hands of a landmine. Amidst the turmoil, Paul disbelieves Vinh’s intentions, leading him to venture off alone with his share of the gold. The comrades, however, extend their goodwill to Vinh, Hedy, and Simon, promising them a portion of the wealth.

In a moment of despair, Paul spirals into guilt but experiences a vision of Norman, who urges him to release his remorse over their shared past. In a dramatic confrontation, Paul falls at the hands of Desroche’s men, who later attack the remaining group at their refuge in a temple. A fierce battle ensues, with both Otis and Melvin sacrificing for one another’s safety.

In a heroic act, David ultimately avenges Otis and puts an end to Desroche’s threats. The surviving Bloods, with Vinh’s assistance, distribute the gold among their loved ones; Melvin’s share is given to his widow, while Eddie’s is donated to a Black Lives Matter organization, and Hedy and Simon contribute their portions to the landmine organization in honor of Seppo. Ultimately, the military provides a respectful return of Norman’s remains to his family. In an emotional closing, David reads a heartfelt letter from Paul, reinforcing the unbreakable bond between father and son, while Otis embraces a newfound connection with Tiên and their daughter.

Uncover the Details: Timeline, Characters, Themes, and Beyond!

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Watch Trailers, Clips & Behind-the-Scenes for Da 5 Bloods

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Watch official trailers, exclusive clips, cast interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage from Da 5 Bloods. Dive deeper into the making of the film, its standout moments, and key production insights.


Official Trailer

Spike Lee's Da 5 Bloods: Casting and Crafting a Timely Epic

What The Critics Are Saying

Chadwick Boseman’s Monologue

The Revolutionary Art Of Spike Lee’s New Netflix Film

Spike Lee Breaks Down Black History in Da 5 Bloods

What to Watch on Netflix: Spike Lee and Da 5 Bloods

Spike Lee's Inspirations for Da 5 Bloods

Da 5 Bloods Star Jonathan Majors On Being Directed By Spike Lee

The Cast of Da 5 Bloods Share Their Wisdom

Cars Featured in Da 5 Bloods

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Explore all cars featured in Da 5 Bloods, including their makes, models, scenes they appear in, and their significance to the plot. A must-read for car enthusiasts and movie buffs alike.


Austin

1957

A95 Westminster

Chevrolet

1981

Suburban

Jeep

CJ-7

Jeep

1981

Pickup

Kia

2016

Carnival

Land-Rover

2006

Range Rover Series III

Lincoln

1995

Town Car

unknown

Da 5 Bloods Themes and Keywords

Discover the central themes, ideas, and keywords that define the movie’s story, tone, and message. Analyze the film’s deeper meanings, genre influences, and recurring concepts.


vietnam war1960sreciting the 23rd psalmgunfirefather son relationshipmultiple aspect ratiosshootoutgunfightmultiple time framesno opening creditsno title at beginningn wordreference to george washingtonlandminedirect addresssoliloquysnakeshooting a snakefriendly firelimbs blown offtourniquetwidowervietnamwar babymother died at childbirthmalapropism1970ssecret handshakeblack lives matterinterracial romancefalling on a hand grenadecharitable donationwhite suitman wears a white suitmale wears a baseball capptsd post traumatic stress disorderwoman urinatesblack americanvietnam war veteranphotographcivil rightskent state universitymoneydrinkdrinkingcambodialaosyear 1968year 1971year 1970
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