Ep 9. Armadillo by Janus Metz

In POV season 24 episode 9, titled Armadillo, award-winning Danish filmmaker Janus Metz takes viewers on a gripping and thought-provoking journey into the realities of war in Afghanistan as seen through the eyes of young soldiers.

The episode brings the audience face to face with a group of Danish soldiers deployed to the Helmand Province in southern Afghanistan in 2009. Armed with handheld cameras, the soldiers document their daily lives in the war zone, capturing everything from the mundanity of base life to the intensity of firefights.

As the documentary unfolds, viewers are offered a peek into the comradery and bonds formed between the soldiers, as well as the challenges they face on a daily basis. From the crushing boredom of long weeks spent guarding a deserted road, to the adrenaline rush of engaging with enemy insurgents, the soldiers' stories offer a visceral and compelling look at the nature of modern warfare.

Armadillo also examines the psychological and emotional toll of war, delving deeply into the soldiers' experiences of fear, trauma, and moral conflict. As the soldiers struggle to reconcile their sense of duty with the realities of combat, the documentary offers an unflinching portrayal of the often brutal and devastating consequences of war.

Throughout the documentary, Metz uses a deeply personal approach to convey a sense of intimacy and authenticity, giving viewers a front-row seat to the soldiers' world. The soldiers' own footage is supplemented by interviews with military experts and commentators, providing valuable context and insight into the complex reality of war.

Overall, Armadillo is a stunning and thought-provoking exploration of the human cost of war, and a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve. Metz's skillful direction and his subjects' raw and honest storytelling combine to create a compelling and unforgettable documentary experience.