Carrier at War: The USS Enterprise

Carrier at War: The USS Enterprise is a remarkable 2007 feature-length documentary directed by veteran filmmaker Robert Kline. This non-fiction tour de force invites viewers for an exclusive exploration aboard the U.S Navy's famed aircraft carrier, the USS Enterprise (CVN 65), chronicling its rich history and pivotal role in the U.S military operations.

The USS Enterprise, commissioned in 1961, was the world’s first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. It was a mechanical leviathan with an unmatchable presence. Known colloquially as "Big E," the ship has participated in numerous critical operations over her five-decade service life, reinforcing U.S.'s commitment to maintaining peace during crucial historical moments. The documentary effectively takes the audience through the legacy of this iconic naval ship from its construction to its last deployment.

The film's narrative style is a seamless fusion of past and present scenes, historical footages, personal testimonies, and captivating infographics that provide a comprehensive look at life onboard the USS Enterprise. The documentary looks at more than just the machinations and military significance of the "Big E"; it dives deeper into the human aspect too. The story is uniquely driven by the ship crew's perspectives to offer insight into their experiences, their relentless dedication, their untamed spirit, the tough training drills, and the intricate web of relationships that bind the people onboard this floating city.

Carrier at War: The USS Enterprise uses a deft mix of enriching interviews with ship commanders, sailors, aviators, and other crew members to provide a realistic depiction of life on the carrier. The conversations are skillfully interwoven with other elements revealing the complex operations onboard, from navigation to the daunting task of plane landings and take-offs at sea. Also featured are details about the day-to-day tasks undertaken by the diverse crew, from meal preparations to maintenance, painting a living and breathing portrait of the carrier's vibrant community.

One distinct aspect of the film is its broad titling of the carrier as a 'floating city,' and rightly so. With over 4000 personnel, presentation of the USS Enterprise as a microcosm of a city brings in powerful imagery. With its own post office, fire department, hospital, food centers, and newspaper publication, it indeed supersedes the concept of being just a ship to a self-sustained community.

Another significant feature of Carrier at War: The USS Enterprise is its ability to portray the emotive side of the carrier's life. The documentary captures behind-the-scenes moments that reveal the personal lives of the crew members —their triumphs, losses, their longing for home, living in confined spaces, coping with stress, and finding joy amidst the seriousness of their profession. It touches upon the emotional bonding of the crew, their shared sense of purpose, camaraderie, and mutual respect that flows through the veins of the ship. The film gives due respect to the collective sacrifices made by the crew, revealing not only their physical endurance but also their mental determination in the line of duty.

Director Robert Kline, who is well-regarded for his compelling documentary narrative style, exceeds expectations in delivering a visually stunning account of the USS Enterprise. The filmmaking team spared no effort in capturing the cinematic grandeur of the ship, providing enchanting aerial shots, breathtaking panoramic views, and intense close-ups.

What Kline and his team achieved with Carrier at War: The USS Enterprise is more than just a recap of the carrier's operational experience. It is an awe-inspiring testament to the human spirit in the realm of duty, sacrifice, and patriotism. The film leaves its viewers with a profound respect for the people who have sailed aboard the USS Enterprise and their steadfast commitment to their nation's call.

In essence, Carrier at War: The USS Enterprise from 2007, is an earnest documentary that conveys the story of one of the greatest warships in naval history and its people. It is a must-watch for history enthusiasts, military aficionados, and anyone curious about naval life and its varied dimensions.