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| Movie Review: Body of War Alternate Title: The Reluctant Hero
Story: Most of the films made
about the Iraq War are as unpopular as the War itself. It seems that
Americans simply do not want to be reminded of this on going debacle
in the newspapers, on TV or on the big screen. But thankfully there
are dedicated filmmakers such as co-directors Phil Donahue
and Ellen Spiro who fight the good fight. They have
produced a powerful documentary about Iraq War vet Tomas Young
from Kansas City, MO. It is as good as films like these get. Mr. Young was in Iraq only five days before he
was hit by a sniper's bullet while riding in an open truck with his
platoon. He is paralyzed from the nipples down. The story of how he
deals with his depression, his injuries and his out of control body
functions are clinical and stirring. How he soldiers on and now devotes
his life to the Veterans Against the War movement is the heart of the
story. What makes it even more powerful is the juxtaposing back and
forth between Young's story and the Congressional vote on Resolution
114 back in 2002 that allowed Bush to take us to war. You will get angry, you will shake your head,
you will pound your fist on the armrest and above all - you will cry.
This is an intimate portrait of a young man cut down in his early life.
I was moved. Mr. Young has appeared on 60 Minutes nd Bill Moyers did
an hour's show on this hero. You can watch some of it here. Acting: Not applicable in a documentary.
Predilection: I am a political junkie and feel obligated
to see these films.
Critters: A sweet, peppy black Lab.
Sex Spectrum: There is no sex but plenty of discussions
about erectile dysfunction and catheters.
Soundtrack: Mostly original music by Eddie
Vedder. Terrific tracks.
Theater Audience: About ten men (some looked old
enough to be Vietnam Vets and some young enough to be Iraq War Vets)
and me. I saw this film at the IFC Waverly but am afraid it has left
theaters. Hopefully it will be shown on TV or be available on DVD soon.
Sappy Factor: 0
Squirm Scale: Watching Tomas Young deal with his
injuries is hard to watch.
Drift Factor: I was attentive throughout.
Predictability Level: Sadly, high.
Tissue Usage: One
Oscar Worthy: Perhaps
Soap Box: If you want to here my political rants you
can go to my other site: http://www.judylobo.wordpress.com/
Big Screen or Rental: Rental is probably your only
option.
Length: 90 minutes
LOBO HOWLS: 8 |