Watch Paying the Price for Peace: The Story of S. Brian Willson
- 2016
- 1 hr 37 min
Paying the Price for Peace: The Story of S. Brian Willson is a powerful and captivating documentary that follows the life of former US Airforce Lt. Brian Willson, who suffered for his convictions of protesting against the Vietnam War in the 1960s and subsequently, as a peace activist in the 1980s. Directed by Bo Boudart, this film reveals the incredible journey of Willson, who went from being a Reagan Republican and a Vietnam War supporter to an anti-war activist after spending time living in Latin America and witnessing the effects of American foreign policies on the locals. Willson's protest against American foreign policies resulted in his becoming an iconic figure for peace activists in America, as well as internationally.
The documentary is narrated by Peter Coyote, who gives an outstanding performance as he takes viewers through the story of Willson's life, his reasons for protesting against the US foreign policies, and the price that he and others paid as a result of their activism.
The film uses a mix of archival footage, interviews with people who know and have worked with Willson, and moments of Willson himself, reflecting on his journey. It also shows the heartbreaking scenes of the bombing of Cambodia, a war-torn El Salvador, and the destruction caused by the mining of Nicaraguaâs harbors, with searing arguments against Reagan's policies.
The film shows the critical moment when Willson became a symbol of American protest when, on September 1, 1987, as part of a blockade against arms shipments to Central America, he lay down on the tracks of a train carrying a cargo of bombs headed to Central America. The train driver did not see him, so he was run over by the train, resulting in a loss of both his legs. The footage of the incident is difficult to watch, but viewers can understand how painful it must have been for him to suffer in this way. The way Willson speaks about the terrifying incident, which caused the deaths of his fellow activists, is a testament to his brave and strong character.
The documentary also depicts the manner in which Willson continues to fight for peace and social justice, even today, extending across different parts of the world. It highlights the way in which he has made it his life's mission, traveling tirelessly across America, Asia, and Central America, sharing his message of nonviolence and seeking to end international corruption.
The film does an excellent job of portraying Willson's story, his beliefs, and how he continues to thrive for social justice, despite the significant setbacks and hardships he has faced. The documentary also highlights his strong sense of community and how his activism has been about bringing people together to fight for a common cause.
Overall, Paying the Price for Peace: The Story of S. Brian Willson is a beautifully crafted documentary that tells a compelling story of a remarkable man, and his quest for peace and social justice. It is both an inspiration and a warning to the dangers faced by ordinary people who choose to stand up to egregious power, and a testimony to the transformational power of nonviolence. Professional production values, high-definition photography, and terrific sound make this an experience not to be missed.
In conclusion, Paying the Price for Peace: The Story of S. Brian Willson is a must-watch film that covers an issue that has affected populations worldwide. It will challenge viewers' perspectives on the US policies on foreign affairs and provide a mirror to assess the role of the United States in world affairs.