What could be worse than learning of a loved one's death. With the high risk associated with military action aboard, it stands to reason that this is a full-time job. But who, not I, has thought about who does this job?
This poignant story reveals the distress on both sides. The giver of bad news and the receiver. The story is so well done, I feel the pain of loved ones who receive the devastating news. This part of the story feels so real that the scenes with bereaved family members crawl into my heart and my heart cries. But receiving the notification serves to also point out the horrific hardship that men and women face who bear the task of delivering this life-changing news.
Who could imagine what wrenching duty this chore is for anyone, let alone someone who does it full time, day after day. But of course, it is not a chore at all, but a job to be done. The story unfolds naturally like a mother unfolding a newborn baby's blanket. It's a gentle revelation, while at the same time, uncorking the silent agony of the messengers. Soldiers who have the job of notifying family members witness -- up close and personal -- the impact, sorrow and instant suffering of those who hear the untimely news.
Who really gives thought to what it can do to a person to have to be the bearer of such bad news, not just one time... I sure didn't even think of it. I never wondered what the process might be, or even that there was a process. After being riveted to this movie, I now know that a notification such as this must absolutely be done right -- for the sake and sensibilities of all concerned. Saying or doing the wrong thing at such an emotional moment can have a powerful and unexpected outcome… as this story clearly illustrates.
What's interesting is the tiny moment in the beginning of this masterpiece where a recovering soldier, Will Montgomery (Ben Foster) is ordered to partake in a notification unit along with Captain Tony Stone (played by Woody Harrelson). Foster, a hero by all standards except his own, is already embittered by his own demons. You can see the utter disgust on his face, because he feels this is a bogus assignment. I felt what he felt: Didn't he deserve better treatment. After all, he's a bloody hero. Shouldn't a hero get the cherry assignments?
Not enough can be said about Woody. I've watched him since Cheers. He's a talented actor, and age has brought out the better best actor in him. Woody Harrelson is no ordinary actor.
I felt his character's pain and anguish as he tries to teach notification procedures to Montgomery. The drama matures as these two soldiers cope with the process of notifying family members of the fallen. The tragedy of this process comes to a climax in a spellbinding moment. A scene that immediately caused me to start guessing what the outcome would be.
In the end, for me, I am so glad I saw this movie. Everyone should see it. It gives a humble appreciation for what our troops and their families face. I have a completely new recognition and understanding for our troops.
Any time a story told on film can add to my real life, well, that's major. The story and the performances are exemplary.
I can't think of one thing that would make this movie better. I highly recommend it.