The Last Patrol

The Last Patrol is a thought-provoking documentary from renowned filmmaker Sebastian Junger that provides a deep dive into the aftereffects of war and the road to recovery. Known for directing the acclaimed war documentaries Restrepo and Korengal, Junger takes a different approach in The Last Patrol, focusing on the soldiers' psychological battles after leaving the war-torn landscapes.

In this 2014 documentary, Junger reunites with Brendan O'Byrne, a former soldier and his collaborator in the previous Afghanistan War documentaries. O'Byrne, a seasoned veteran struggling to reintegrate into civilian life, joins Junger alongside two other Afghanistan War veterans, Dave Roels and Guillermo Cervera, making up the core group in this film. Junger, who has retired from war reporting following the death of his close friend and colleague Tim Hetherington, also navigates his transition from the battlefield.

In The Last Patrol, the group embarks on an ambitious journey along the railroad lines of the Eastern United States, from Washington D.C. to Philadelphia and eventually to Pittsburgh. The trek, aimed at recapturing some sense of the brotherhood, camaraderie, and thrill they found during their stints on the battlegrounds, takes them through some of the country's most distressed regions, including derelict industrial towns and deserted rural landscapes.

Throughout their journey, they're forced to confront their pasts, deal with their personal traumas and understand the psychological toll their wartime experiences have had. The expedition is filmed in a conversational style, revealing their thoughts, fears, longings, and inner battles about their past and their struggles to adapt to a life away from the war.

The documentary stands out for its raw, candid approach. There's no glorification of war or veterans here. Instead, it's a frank examination of what men are like when they return from war and the challenges they face in feeling at home in a place they no longer recognize. There's an atmosphere of frustration, confusion, difficulty with communication, and moments of despair.

However, the film is not bereft of lighter times. When the group moves away from the troubles of their past and the stress of reintegrating into society, they often find joy in the simplicity of being on the road together. The camaraderie and shared understanding amongst them are palpable, reminiscent of the bonds formed on the battlefield.

The Last Patrol explores important questions. It delves into themes of manhood, war, peace, freedom, and what it means to be a patriot. Are we as respectful and understanding toward our returning veterans as we should be? What is it like for soldiers to return from war to a peaceful society? What are the psychological aftereffects of surviving a war, only to feel displaced in one's own homeland?

The documentary showcases the concepts of brotherhood and community as its heroes attempt to make sense of their experiences and existential dilemmas. Through its exploration of these themes, The Last Patrol encourages viewers to ponder the human cost of war and to consider the value of empathy towards those struggling with internal battles long after the external ones have ceased.

Moreover, the film features stunning photography making the visuals as moving as its content. The picturesque beauty of American landscapes juxtaposes the gritty, harsh realities of the towns and areas the group traverse. The lack of external conflict in these settings starkly contrasts with the internal conflicts faced by each man, creating a visually striking parallel.

Overall, The Last Patrol is not just a documentary about soldiers but about the universal human experience of loss, transition, and the ceaseless search for a sense of belonging. It's a thought-provoking exploration that leaves its audience with many questions, prompting them to reflect on the state of our society and our expectations of those brave citizens who risk their lives in the line of duty, only to grapple with a different, deeper battle upon their return.

In summary, The Last Patrol is a profound and deeply human documentary that provides unique insights into the struggles and survival of war veterans. It's a must-watch for anyone interested in human resilience, the psychological effects of war, and the ongoing battles faced by war heroes when they return home.