Restrepo, a 2010 film directed by Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington, chonicles a year in the life of a US platoon in the deadly Korengal Valley of Afghanistan.
The film offers an unfiltered look at what the Second Platoon experienced daily as they fought hard to push back the Taliban.
Never before have I seen a film that illustrates the tremendous labor, valiance, and personal turmoil that our soldiers face in the warzone. Prior to seeing this movie, the opening Normandy landing sequences depicted in Saving Private Ryan was the most visceral depiction of war action I had seen.
At times, the film was difficult to watch due to the true-life experiences it so honestly illustrates, yet it was impossible to turn away. The steadfast bravery and emotions shown by our soldiers evokes such strong emotion while viewing the film. The film offers a no-holds-barred look at life on the front lines.
The film captures the platoon engaging in deadly firefights, meeting with Afghani elders, dealing with the death of comrades, and the strife caused by being far from loved ones. Unless you have been on the front, this film will offer you the closest look at what that experience is like.
After having watched Restrepo, I feel so blessed that we have such dedicated and brave soldiers that are willing to fight in distant lands to protect what we hold so dear at home. The traditional media does not come even close to giving us an honest portrayal of what is happening afar. If you get the chance, please take the time to watch this film, and then join me in praising the valiant efforts of our military.
Have you seen Restrepo? What are your thoughts and reactions?
