2 out of 5 stars
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has been reflected in the lives of soldiers throughout history. For many men and women who have fought on the frontlines it is difficult to leave the trauma of war behind. Even though this mental health issue has been around since the beginning of time, many people are just becoming aware of its effects on the military. Eric Werthman’s film addresses true-to-life scenarios of soldiers who have returned from the Iraq War and those individuals who attempt to help them.
In Watertown, New York, Vietnam Vet and lawyer, Mark Walker (Danny Glover), works at The Drummer. This cafe is set up for soldiers to find solace from the intense life on base. As the veteran coordinates an anti-war demonstration, Corporal Darian Cooper (Sam Underwood) walks into the cafe. He hopes to find out what Walker does to assist soldiers struggling with transitioning back to life at home. As he prepares for his third tour of duty, the young husband and father want to know if he can keep from being shipped out. Yet, as the two men talk, Cooper decides to leave and return to his family and prepare to leave for Iraq.
Not too long afterward, Walker is approached by a woman whose granddaughter has gone AWOL (Absent Without Leave) after her recent tour of duty. Cori Gibson (Prema Cruz) experienced another type of trauma while on the battlefield. One would cause her to desert her platoon on arrival back in the United States, but now she was requesting help. A choice that would lead to her arrest and having to confront her demons while explaining her actions. With both of these cases before him, Mark must determine how to assist these soldiers. Especially within a system that does not want to accept their medical struggles.
At 75 years of age, Danny Glover does not seem to be slowing down and does manage to carry this movie through to the end. As producer and star, he conveys the personal aspect of this story as a means of honouring his brother who was a veteran. It is a long way from his Lethal Weapon days, but his charismatic style does help to cover many of the weaknesses within the screenplay.
These three interwoven stories expose the real-life challenges of returning veterans and society that does not know how to respond to their needs. This low-budget independent film tackles a massive topic that needs to be addressed worldwide. Despite the apparent production limitations, the cast and crew do an admirable job of showcasing the needs of these soldiers. Along with the vital work of those who hope to get them the assistance they need. The importance of the topic outweighs the quality of the film. It is worthwhile viewing for the sake of awareness of this great need in the lives of veterans.
REEL DIALOGUE: Why is there such a stigma with mental health?
Even with modern advancements and education, people still have a hard time knowing how to respond to mental illness. It is not new to society; throughout the Bible there are references to individuals that struggle with these internal challenges. The realities portrayed in the Bible help show that the answers can be found in the words of Jesus. God can help through the journey and know that seeking help is better than struggling alone.
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
Who to contact if you need help? Beyond Blue or Wesley Mission
