...As If They Were Angels

As If They Were Angels is a remarkable 2018 documentary directed by Terry Strauss and narrated by veteran actor, Peter Coyote. The movie delves into an appealing intersection of war, humanitarian acts, and camaraderie.

As the title suggests, the film embarks on a journey of diverse, complex emotions and narratives associated with the Second World War, specifically focusing on February 18, 1942, an inevitably tragic day for two American destroyers, the USS Truxtun and the USS Pollux.

The story unfolds with an unfortunate event when these two naval ships ran aground off the Newfoundland coast amidst a violent storm in one of the most untraveled parts of the North Atlantic Ocean. The conditions were so severe that of the over 400 men aboard, almost half perished either immediately in the disaster or in the freezing North Atlantic waters.

Yet, within this strife, a flicker of hope and humanity thrives. The remaining stranded survivors find salvation in an unexpected form: a group of impoverished Newfoundland villagers. Living in a physically harsh and economically challenging environment, these villagers exhibited uncommon valor and generosity despite their circumstances. Disregarding their safety and the almost insurmountable odds against them, they plunged headlong into the freezing waters to save the American sailors.

At its core, As If They Were Angels doesn't merely serve as a retelling of a forgotten tale of tragedy; rather, it accentuates the spirit of humanity and compassion. The Newfoundland villagers who risked their lives to pull survivors from roiling, oil-slicked seas, create a testament of humanity that has long been madly in love with both the concept and practice of self-sacrifice.

Strauss' approach towards the retelling of these events is both sensitive and meticulous. He combines elements of oral history, archival footage, and visually stunning animations to bring the story to life. The excellent narration by Peter Coyote provides a distinctive touch and his voice resonates with the essence of the account, making the narrative more gripping.

Through the retelling of a forgotten story of human kindness overshadowing the atrocities of war, the movie subtly draws attention towards the underestimated potential of human compassion. It gives a voice to the unsung heroes whose valor was nearly lost in the shadows of history.

Moreover, the film brilliantly explores the long-term impact of the disaster and the rescue efforts, not just on the survivors, but also on the Newfoundland community that offered their help with open hearts. It illuminates the profound resonance of the event on subsequent generations and how this singular act of empathy has forged an eternal bond between the people involved.

The documentary provides a stark view of the bonds and alliances that can emerge in times of crisis and stands as a testament to the extraordinary will of humans to extend a helping hand in dire circumstances, challenging the viewer's thoughts on the preconceived definitions of heroism.

As If They Were Angels doesn't only analyze history instead it insists on the viewers to redefine empathy, heroism, and sacrifice. It's a tribute to humanity, the immense courage of a few, and the lives they saved in an unassuming corner of the world caught amidst horrific wartime circumstances.

Coupled with the engaging narration by Coyote, visually compelling sequences, and poignant interviews with the survivors and their rescuers, the film forms an impressive and emotionally loaded exploration of human endurance, resilience, and solidarity.

Overall, As If They Were Angels rides a roller coaster of emotions, taking you from the depth of despair to the height of awe and gratitude for the spirit of humanity. It is a beautiful, immersive, and heartening experience that is capable of leaving any viewer with both a lump in their throat and a resolve to believe in the better angels of our nature.