Full Metal Jacket discarded that in favor of a film about the Vietnam War. They met in England, and the director told Herr that he wanted to do a war film but had yet to find a story to adapt. Kubrick discovered Gustav Hasford's novel "The Short-Timers" (1979) while reading the "Virginia Kirkus Review." Herr received it in bound galleys and thought that it was a masterpiece. In 1982, Kubrick read the novel twice, concluding that it "was a unique, absolutely wonderful book", and decided, along with Herr, to adapt it for his next film. According to Kubrick, he was drawn to the
Full Metal Panic! and the animation done on "Full Metal Panic!", saying both animation and camera views were bad. The novels have over 11 million copies in print. Full Metal Panic! Individual chapters are published on "Monthly Dragon Magazine", followed by a paperback compilation released by Fujimi Shobo's Fujimi Fantasia Bunko. The novels are split between stories focusing on Sousuke's mission as a soldier of Mithril and comedic side stories centered on his life at Jindai High School. The series has been adapted into different media; including four anime television series: "Full Metal Panic!" by Gonzo in 2002, "Full Metal Panic? Fumoffu" and