USS Indianapolis: The Legacy

USS Indianapolis: The Legacy is a captivating 2015 documentary film that brings to life the harrowing yet heroic story of the USS Indianapolis crew, famous for enduring one of the most catastrophic naval tragedies in U.S. history. Directed by Sara Vladic, and starring William Roy Akines, Tom Balunis, and George Barber, the film does an excellent job of weaving historical fact and personal experience to construct a detailed narrative of an event that shook the United States to its core during World War II.

William Roy Akines, Tom Balunis, and George Barber are not playing traditional characters, but rather share their intimate knowledge about the events as historians and experts. The film does not depend on a typical script or plot, but progresses through a deliberate and detailed exploration of the events that unfolded aboard the ill-fated USS Indianapolis.

The movie begins by firmly setting the dramatic pretext of the events to unfold. The USS Indianapolis, a heavy cruiser of the Pacific Fleet, secretly delivered a key component of the ‘Little Boy’ atomic bomb to Tinian Island. This eventually led to the catastrophic bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, leading to the end of the war. However, the heroism of the USS Indianapolis and its covert mission remain unknown, as this was followed by a tragedy that outshone the prior valiant act.

The ship was sunk by Japanese submarine torpedoes, leaving approximately 900 sailors stranded in the shark-infested waters of the Pacific Ocean. The film painstakingly records their unbelievable story of survival, through a combination of expert interviews, archival footage, survivor and eyewitness accounts, and personal items from the ill-fated sailors.

One of the unique elements of this film is the treatment of its narrative. The filmmakers intelligently meld together personal accounts from survivors, painstakingly sourced archival materials, and military records. This approach allows audiences to gain an intimate understanding of the sailors’ bone-chilling experience, their will to survive, the tremendous bonds formed amidst despair, and the ultimate cost of war.

Director Sara Vladic has commendably given due space to the discussions around the diplomatic and political ramifications of the incident, including the controversial court-martial of the ship's surviving captain, Charles McVay. The film explores these sequence of events with a keen focus on the human element caught in the midst of catastrophic war and political drama.

The narrative style of the documentary creates a deep sense of empathy and connection, drawing viewers into the stark reality faced by the crew in the open ocean. Each retelling, historical detail, and artifact contribute to a rich tapestry of heroism, pain, survival, and commemoration. The interviews of the survivors come across as heartfelt tributes to their fallen comrades, making the viewing experience poignant and emotive.

The extensive research and dedication in producing the film becomes increasingly apparent as the story unfolds. The documentary skilfully uses photographs, letters, official records, and personal effect to create a comprehensive account, revealing lesser-known facts and details about the incident. The movie is not just a factual presentation, it is an immersive, hard-hitting journey that takes viewers through one of the darkest eras in American history.

To sum up, USS Indianapolis: The Legacy is a well-crafted documentary. It is a compelling tale of bravery, survival, and the tragic cost of war. The film serves to educate and remind viewers about the heroism and sacrifice of the sailors aboard the doomed heavy cruiser, while also eliciting deep empathy and appreciation for their courage and resilience. It is a must-watch for history enthusiasts and those interested in war stories, filled with survival and hope in the face of despair. The film captivates viewers, offering an unforgettable glimpse into a significant event in U.S. military history.