Not Yet Begun to Fight

Not Yet Begun to Fight is a poignant portrayal of the challenges facing five veterans from our modern war. Their injuries are deep, either to their emotional states or, to their physiology. This movie captures their bravery, fortitude and tenacity to overcome their wounds and make new lives for themselves. The scenery is beautifully captured in the serene atmosphere of a Montana river, where catharsis takes place for them. Any viewer who has the capacity to empathize with our brave veterans will be touched by the story portrayed in this film. You might find yourself picking a favorite veteran, because you resonate with the injuries or experiences in war which brought him to these waters. This film is reflective, relevant and engaging for viewers, and, provides hope for all of us who share in the fate of our beloved veterans.

A wonderfully moving film which shows the profound impact of warfare on veterans and their families. The film captures the strength of these wounded survivors and the dedication of those who wish to support them in their re-adjustment to civilian life. The movie is set in Montana, and the cinematography is breath-taking. This is not a political film, but a human-interest story which can't help but raise political questions. It doesn't take sides, and lets the veterans speak for themselves about their complex feelings about the war. It is a movie which you will find yourself thinking about for days if not months to come.

This was only an hour long but hugely powerful. Profiling several wounded combat veterans who go to a fishing camp run by a Vietnam veteran who found that fly-fishing (the act of catch and release) helped him deal with his own emotional distress and hopes to help other wounded soldiers.

Through intimate interviews we learn what the men did in the war; pilots, Navy SEAL's, bomb disposal, drivers and then the human cost of war is shown as they try to come to terms with their new reality. Most are suffering from blast injuries and PTSD. This packs a huge punch, such valuable men now so damaged. The SEAL stood out; a huge barrel chested man now missing a leg, confined to a wheelchair and unable to speak but as his tattoo says "we ain't done fighting yet" Wow. 05.25.14

As a tribute to the men and women who serve their country and suffer bodily and brain trauma to show for it, this film is one that covers a topic we mostly try to avoid. The once strong, now crumpled fighters become very human and accessible through the interviewing and listening of the film makers.

Shot in a scenic spot in Montana, the cinematography is stunning. The beauty only makes the poignancy of the soldiers' stories more heartfelt.

This film was personally selected by Roger Ebert shortly before his death for a place in his annual film festival in Champaign, IL.

See it if you can!

This was a beautiful film. For the 1st couple of minutes or so, I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy it - I was anticipating being a little bored. But that fear soon dissipated and I found myself completely absorbed. This movie manages to be exceptionally moving without ever being manipulative or hokey. Grounded, real, and inspiring. I'd highly recommend viewing on a big screen if possible since the shots of the scenery are beautiful. But it's not absolutely critical, since the stories of the wounded vets would come across on any screen.

I was fortunate enough to attend a screening where we learned some of the "what they're doing now" stories of the men profiled in the film, and I only wish that these updates could somehow be incorporated into the movie itself. (Not realistic of course, since even if the most recent updates were added today, life goes on and they couldn't stay current. But I think audiences will find themselves curious to know what these brave folks are up to.)

One thing I think makes this movie special is that despite its subject matter, it doesn't seem to have a political agenda--should appeal to those who enjoy human interest stories, regardless of their politics. If you happen to love nature, fishing, or a particular vet, probably so much the better, but I don't think it's necessary.