Restrepo Movie Review

“Restrepo” redefines war films by shedding off all the cinematic effects and presenting reality at its raw finest. Shot at an army outpost in one of the most dangerous areas in Afghanistan, Korengal Valley, the film gives viewers fresh-off battle footage rarely seen in documentaries before. The realism of the material is as vividly terrifying as it captures the gravity of the situation’s very essence. Though the film talks about war, the filmmakers made it a point to strip it of all political statements to cater to a broader audience regardless which side they are on.

In a span of 14 months, filmmakers Tim Hetherington and award-winning photojournalist Sebastian Junger immerse themselves in the world of Capt. Dan Kearney’s platoon. Together with the soldiers they embark on the journey from beginning until the end of deployment. The ability of these two to establish rapport with the soldiers allowed them to make such an intimate film that viewers could easily relate to. The duo’s aim was to take the audience right into the heart of the action and make them feel like they were there present in the scenery all along. From their series of jokes until their moments of panic and chaos, everything was captured on film.

The task wasn’t easy. The dedication of the two and the risks they took to come up with this film is enough to deserve much praise. Like the soldiers, the filmmakers were also at the midst of the heated battle. Here viewers would get to see the real deal as the fighting between the two parties is presented raw, senseless, and violent as can be. Clearly, there is no mercy in the battlefield as soldiers end up wounded or worse killed. It’s emotional to see these trained men shed tears and go through a phase of shock yet still continue to perform their sworn duties. The concept of war is given a new meaning through “Restrepo”.