HELL AND BACK AGAIN

a film by Danfung Dennis

Academy Award nominee for Best Documentary

What does it mean to lead men in war? What does it mean to come home — injured physically and psychologically — and build a life anew? In Hell and Back Again two overlapping narratives are intercut — the life of a Marine at war on the front, and the life of the same Marine in recovery at home — creating both a dreamlike quality and a strikingly realistic depiction of how Marines experience this war.

The story follows the U.S. Marines Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, as they launch a major assault on a Taliban stronghold in Southern Afghanistan. Within hours of being dropped deep behind enemy lines, Sergeant Nathan Harris's unit is attacked from all sides. Cut off and surrounded, the Marines fight a ghostlike enemy and experience immense hostility from displaced villagers. Frustration grows on both sides, as any common ground, or success, seems elusive.

VIEW A TRAILER at this LINK

IMPORTANT FILM NOTE:  Danfung Dennis’ Hell and Back Again combines “you are there” Afghanistan war footage with a tough and unflinching look at one soldier’s struggle through post-combat physical rehabilitation. The film is recommended for mature audiences.  Some audience members may feel the need to take a break either during or immediately following the screening. A separate room will be available outside the screening for persons as needed.

FREE SCREENING and Q&A with representatives from GIVE AN HOUR, an organization dedicated to meeting the mental health needs of the troops and families affected by the ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. GIVE AN HOUR is available to provide confidential counseling - more information will be available at the screening.

Visit giveanhour.org for more information

FREE ADMISSION. For tickets, sign up via Eventbrite or call 202-939-0794.

Visit www.communitycinema-dc.org