Ep 2. Of Men And War

Of Men and War is the second episode of the 29th season of POV, a documentary series that brings to light stories and perspectives from around the world. This particular episode takes a deep and intimate look at the experiences of American veterans and their struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The film follows a group of veterans who have gathered together at a retreat in California to participate in a workshop called "The Pathway Home." This workshop is designed to help them confront and work through the trauma they have experienced during their time in the military and their readjustment to civilian life.

The filmmakers use a combination of interviews, verité and re-enacted scenes to vividly portray the emotional, psychological, and physical toll that their experiences have taken on these men and their families. We see their pain, their anger, their confusion, and their vulnerability as they grapple with the memories that continue to haunt them long after the war has ended.

Some of the men we meet include Tom, who served in Iraq and whose PTSD has led to depression and alcohol abuse; Léa, whose husband, an Army Ranger, took his own life after returning home from combat; Grey, who struggles with flashbacks and violent outbursts that have strained his relationship with his wife and children; and Tyler, a Marine who was wounded in Afghanistan and whose physical and emotional scars have made it difficult for him to reconnect with his family.

As the veterans embark on various exercises and therapy sessions, we witness moments of profound breakthroughs and shared moments of connection and support. We see how important it is for these men to experience a sense of brotherhood and camaraderie and how difficult it can be to find that outside of the military.

At the same time, we also see the heartbreaking toll that their trauma takes on those closest to them, particularly their spouses and children. We watch as Grey's wife struggles to cope with his outbursts and the fear that he will harm her or their children. And we see the ways in which Tyler's young daughter has been affected by her father's absence and emotional distance.

Throughout the film, we are reminded of the incredible sacrifice that these men and women have made on behalf of their country. And we are left with a deep sense of gratitude for their service and a renewed commitment to supporting and caring for those who continue to struggle with the aftermath of war.

Of Men and War is a powerful and moving documentary that provides a rare and candid glimpse into the realities of life for many of our veterans today. It is a must-watch for anyone who wants to gain a deeper understanding of the toll that war takes on the men and women who serve in our armed forces, as well as their families and communities.