Watch Soundtrack to War

Soundtrack to War is a documentary that was released in 2005 by director George Gittoes. The film follows the lives of American soldiers in Iraq and the way that music has helped them cope with the trauma of war. The film features a mix of interviews with soldiers and footage shot on the front lines. The film explores the way music has been used by soldiers throughout history to help them deal with the stress and trauma of battle. The soldiers discuss how they use music as a form of therapy and how it helps them to stay focused and motivated.

Throughout the film, we see soldiers using music to escape from the reality of war, to connect with each other and to express their emotions. We also see how music is used by the military to influence and manipulate soldiers. For example, soldiers are pumped up before a mission by listening to heavy metal music, or their emotions are controlled through patriotic music played by the military.

One of the most powerful scenes in the film shows soldiers watching a music video featuring footage of destruction in Iraq. The soldiers are shown dancing to the music, while the footage plays in the background. The juxtaposition of the music and the destruction creates a haunting image that speaks to the way that music can be used to both escape from and confront reality.

Throughout the film, we see soldiers singing and playing music in a variety of settings, from impromptu performances in their barracks, to organized shows put on by the military. The music ranges from heavy metal to country to hip-hop, and the soldiers discuss how their musical tastes have changed since being deployed to Iraq.

The film also touches on the way that music has been used in the broader culture of the Iraq War. We see footage of Marilyn Manson playing for soldiers, and interviews with musicians who have written songs about the war. One soldier discusses how his love of music led him to join the military, hoping to use his skills as a drummer to entertain his fellow soldiers.

Soundtrack to War is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that offers a unique look at the way that music can be used to cope with the trauma of war. The film features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique story to tell. It's a reminder of the power of music to bring people together, and to help us to confront difficult emotions.

In conclusion, Soundtrack to War is a documentary that presents a strong argument for the healing power of music, even in the midst of war. It offers a unique perspective on the lives of soldiers in Iraq, and sheds light on the way that music can connect people across cultural and political boundaries. If you're interested in music or the history of war, this is a documentary that is definitely worth watching.