“American Sons”

“American Sons” is a moving documentary that offers a deeply personal look into the lives of Marines who are still grappling with the trauma of their deployment to Afghanistan even a decade later. The film centers around the loss of their best friend, Corporal JV Villarreal, whose narrated, first-person video diary of his time in Afghanistan serves as both a heartbreaking window into their past and a poignant reminder of the unbreakable bonds forged in war.

Director Andrew James Gonzalez’s documentary is incredibly touching as it focuses on the emotional and psychological aftermath of combat and how these Marines lean on each other to cope with their shared trauma. The raw footage, which shows these men confronting their pain and reflecting on the sacrifice they made, is gut-wrenching and deeply human. It’s clear that the loss of JV was not just a loss of a friend, but a wound that continues to haunt these veterans and influences everything from their relationships to their sense of self.

One of the most impactful aspects of the documentary is how it emphasizes the importance of brotherhood and community in the face of such immense loss. The men featured in the film not only share their personal struggles but also their attempts to heal together. The film showcases how vital it is for veterans to have a support system that truly understands their specific type of pain. The bond between these men is a testament to the strength of camaraderie in the military and the importance of leaning on each other after returning home from war.

The documentary serves as a call to action as well. It underscores the need for better care for U.S. veterans once they return home, and focuses on the need to support our veterans long after their service ends. It paints a clear picture of the mental and emotional toll war takes, fostering a greater understanding of the challenges that many veterans face long after they’ve taken off their uniforms.

The combination of JV’s personal video diaries and the Marines’ heartfelt reflections brings a real sense of intimacy to the story. It’s not just a war documentary, but a human story about loss, resilience, and the unspoken struggles of returning to civilian life. The film beautifully highlights how war never truly leaves those who experience it, but also how the bonds formed during that time can help veterans find their way through the pain.

With its sobering and emotional exploration of trauma, brotherhood, and the long road to healing, “American Sons” gives a voice to veterans who often remain unheard. This important documentary that’s is a reminder that our country needs to continue supporting those who have served.

By: Louisa Moore