Operation Homecoming: Writing The Wartime Experience (2007)

Robbins war documentary is for the spectator to come to terms with what's occurring on the battle field and it gives a wonderful impartial view of the current war...

The prose and poetry of the soldiers is striking in its power.

Unique and emotionally moving documentary.

Robbins' docu, initiated by the NEA, tries to convey the subjective feeling and thoughts of soldiers through their writing, be they letters, poems, or stories. By necessity, this collection, which is read by pro actors, is varied in interest and quality.

A different approach from more straightforward Iraq War documentaries. And the film definitely has effective moments, especially those dealing with grief and the rough transition from military to civilian life.

They're stories of war that resonate with anyone who has ever been in a war zone, and they illustrate beautifully for those who have not seen battle, just what combat can do to a person's soul.

Flaws aside, Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience has much value, both as an artistic and historical document.