Introduction
Restrepo is a documentary, which elaborates on the experience of the United States soldiers that were deployed in Afghanistan’s Korengal valley. The documentary film, which was released in 2010, was directed by Sebastian Junger, a journalist and Tim Hetherington, a filmmaker. This documentary explores the lives of soldiers from the moment they are deployed in Afghanistan, to the time they revert to their homes. The choice of this documentary was inspired by the evident dedication of soldiers, who sacrificed their time and lives to create peace in Afghanistan; in addition, this film is not fictional; it is an experiential film.
Summary
Restrepo is a film directed by two American journalists; it explores the experiences of soldiers in Afghanistan Kerengal valley, which was considered the most dangerous area at the time of deployment. The main goal of the deployment was to create peace in the area, as well as gaining the trust of the immediate population. However, in the course of negotiations and campaigns with the locals, Restrepo, whom the film is named after, is killed, as well as Vimoto a team member. Tragic events are evident in the film; for instance, deaths of innocent civilians, as well as soldiers, in addition, several others are wounded.
Opinions and lessons learned from the film
Restrepo documentary is an emotional film, one that displays real emotions of soldiers, especially when they learn that one of their own is dead. The hardships of the soldiers and the will to live another day are evident in the film, the film’s experiential status stands out, as a result displaying reality, rather than fiction. The film is remarkable and deserves credit as it enables the civilians to understand the experiences of the soldiers in a war zone.
The main lesson learned from this film is the need to avoid politics and appreciate the soldiers’ efforts to create peace in war zones. The loss of lives, for instance, that of Restrepo, is a common trend in the battlefield and inevitable at times. Despite the loss of a team member, the combats continuously fight, with the hope of returning home alive, a sign of dedication. The soldiers’ frustration is evident, especially when they were attempting to win the trust of the local civilians who were used by the Taliban to raid attacks. Throughout this film, there is a sense of selflessness, evident in soldiers, an admirable trait, especially in a deadly valley.
Recommendation
Needless to say, this documentary has mostly focused on the American soldiers’ experiences, offering only a token of Afghanistan’s experiences. The film has concentrated on the soldier’s efforts to co-operate with the locals, as well as the frustrations of the soldiers. Incorporating much of Afghanistan’s experiences and their point of view could have made the documentary more interesting. The directors of Restrepo film ignored the main political aspect, which was behind these conflicts. Nevertheless, this is an inspirational documentary, which symbolizes hardships and commitment, with the aim of fostering peace in the Korengal valley, which is a deadly valley.
Conclusion
Restrepo is a film that I would recommend for any viewer, having watched this film for the first time; it leaves me thirsting for more. The fear, frustration, and commitment in the eyes of the soldiers, especially after the loss of one of their own, are some of the real emotional feelings in this movie. As a result, appreciating the work of such soldiers is important, whether they make it back home safe or lose their lives on the battlefield; the combat dedication to their mission is notable. Needless to say, the true emotions portrayed by the soldiers, such as tears, laughter, or frustrations, represent the change of events in Korengal valley.