Synopsis: Pat Tillman gave up his professional football career to join the Army Rangers in 2002—and became an instant symbol of patriotic fervor and unflinching duty. But the truth about Pat Tillman is far more complex, and ultimately more heroic, than the caricature created by the media. And when the government tried to turn his death into war propaganda, they took on the wrong family. From her home in the Santa Cruz mountains, Pat’s mother, Dannie Tillman, led the family’s crusade to reveal the truth beneath the mythology of their son’s life and death. Featuring candid and revelatory interviews with Pat’s fellow soldiers as well as his family, Amir Bar-Lev’s emotional and insightful film not only shines a light on the shady aftermath of Pat’s death and calls to task the entire chain of command but also examines themes as timeless as the notion of heroism itself.

Review: I'm not big on the war, I won't lie.  When I see a documentary about a gung-ho football player that joined the military to fight after the 9-11 tragedy to play GI Joe I guess I'm less than interested.  That just shows my own ignorance, because this man has an amazing story.

Tillman had a multi-million dollar career and threw it all away to fight for his country and do what he thought was the right thing.  I found this film to be harsh, emotional and dark at times, but most certainly enlightening in others.  We're quickly reminded of the absolute imcompetance and deceit of the Bush-era.

Regardless of your politics, this documentary is a must-see.  If Tillman was half the man they paint him to be, he is worthy of our attention.

The special features on this blu-ray include: Commentary with Director Amir Bar-Lev.

Interest Range: Documentary, War