Greetings

The 1968 American satirical comedy directed by Brian De Palma is a bold and experimental film that captures the countercultural spirit of the late 1960s. It follows three friends in New York City—Paul (John Ratzenberger), Jon (Robert De Niro in one of his earliest roles), and Lloyd (Gerrit Graham)—each trying to dodge the Vietnam War draft in their own eccentric ways. Set against the backdrop of anti-war protests, the sexual revolution, and political paranoia, the characters find themselves entangled in absurd and comic scenarios involving fake psychiatric evaluations, conspiracy theories, and amateur pornography. Notably, it became the first American film rated X to be widely distributed, establishing De Palma's reputation as a daring and inventive filmmaker. Despite its low budget, the film stands out for its dynamic cinematic style, sharp satire, and cultural critique. “Greetings” also marked a significant early step in Robert De Niro's acting career, showcasing his emerging talent and comedic range.