Brothers After War, the new documentary produced by veteran actor Gary Sinise and filmmaker Jake Rademacher, releases in select theaters across the country this Friday and offers a heart-wrenching, painful, and ultimately hopeful exploration of veteran life long after combat.
A sequel to the 2009 documentary Brothers at War, the new film follows the lives of several U.S. servicemen who Jake Rademacher embedded with during the Iraq War, while dutifully chronicling the many challenges they face in civilian life, from PTSD to marital troubles to depression and reconnecting with old friends.
“Ultimately, the film serves as a testament to the enduring strength of those who serve, and a beacon of hope for those navigating the complex path from warfighter to veteran,” the filmmakers said in the movie’s press release.
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The filmmakers described Brothers After War as an “ambitious undertaking,” with its filming spanning multiple continents over several years, time fraught with complications, most especially the coronavirus pandemic.
“The filmmakers collaborated closely with military officials and local governments to embed the narrative within authentic military operations, ensuring an unparalleled level of realism and integrity,” said the press release. “From the training grounds of North Carolina to the rolling hills of Tuscany and finally landing in the ancient deserts of North Africa, the film captures breathtaking landscapes juxtaposed with the stark realities of military life.”
“The veterans’ stories, told through their own voices, reveal the profound struggles of reintegration and the enduring sense of brotherhood that sustains them, even in the most isolating times,” the release said.
METANOIA FILMS/GARY SINISE FOUNDATION/PERSEVERANCE PRODUCTIONS
Executive Producer Gary Sinise, whose foundation has been helping veterans since 2011, said of the film’s mission, “While we can never do enough for our defenders and their loved ones, we can always do a little more.”
Director Jake Rademacher said that filming the documentary reminded him that “coming home is the hardest part of being a warrior.”
Veterans have already praised the film for its honesty and its willingness to explore the roller coaster ride of veteran life.
“The film helped me realize I’m not alone or broken. It gives me hope for my future. It helps to hear other stories that are similar to mine, and that it’s okay to be vulnerable,” one veteran said.
Brothers After War will be released on over 100 screens this coming Friday, February 28, with tickets available for purchase online.
Paul Roland Bois directed the award-winning Christian tech thriller, EXEMPLUM, which has a 100% Rotten Tomatoes critic rating and can be viewed for FREE on YouTube, Tubi, or Fawesome TV. “Better than Killers of the Flower Moon,” wrote Mark Judge. “You haven’t seen a story like this before,” wrote Christian Toto. A high-quality, ad-free rental can also be streamed on Google Play, Vimeo on Demand, or YouTube Movies. Follow him on X @prolandfilms or Instagram @prolandfilms.
