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Plot Summary
In 2004, Lt. Col. Michael Strobl volunteered to escort home the body of a 19-year-old Marine killed in Iraq. It would prove to be a life-altering experience. Kevin Bacon stars as Strobl in this profoundly moving HBO Films drama that looks at the military rituals for honoring its war dead from the perspective of one fallen soldier named Chance Phelps. Strobl never knew Phelps before taking the assignment, but as he journeys across America, he discovers the great diligence and dignity in how the military handle such dark duties--and comes to grips with his own issues of guilt when he meets Chance's gracious family and friends. Directed by Ross Katz; screenplay by Lt. Col. Michael R. Strobl, USMC (ret.) and Ross Katz, based on the journal by Lt. Col. Michael R. Strobl, USMC (ret.)
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Rotten Tomatoes Movie Reviews
TOMATOMETER
50%- Reviews Counted: 6
- Fresh: 3
- Rotten: 3
- Average Rating: 6.2/10
Top Critics' Reviews
Rotten: Lazy filmmaking that fails to engage anyone who doesn't have a personal connection to the story. It's so well-meaning that it ultimately means nothing much at all.
Customer Reviews
With honor;
In keeping with honor, this is a very difficult task and is met with a diverse array of reactions. I am grateful as a parent of a soldier in this conflict for this Lt. Col. Michael Strobl’s courage for this task as escort and his actions and this look into the journey home it helps. Escort is in tradition, as in the guarding of the tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the guards will not be dragged away even when weather puts their lives at risk, but remain accepting their own fate for this honor and tradition of respect. I would also thank all of those along the way for their personal dedication during preparations for burial they are the unseen but not forgotten, brought into light by this film. Thank you for making this movie and telling the truth, it was made with tradition and honor in tact.
Nearly Speechless
Even if I were not a Marine or a veteran, I can't see how this movie would not have had any less effect on me. It is well done, moving, and memorable. I'm not one to shed too many tears, but this movie kept my face wet for 90 minutes.
Wonderful!
This movie makes you proud to be an American! I saw this movie at a special screening in Quantico, VA amongst Marines and Chance Phelps' parents. What an experience! It showed the pride and care that the Marines (and all the others) take when dealing with a fallen commarade. It's a wonderful movie!
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