

AWOL
A young woman in the Army must make tough decisions when her love for an older woman causes her to question just where she is going. Adapted from Deb Shoval's 2011 short film of the same name.
Insights
Plot Summary
A young soldier, disoriented and traumatized by his combat experiences, goes AWOL and attempts to reconnect with his family and civilian life. Struggling with PTSD and the harsh realities of returning home, he finds himself increasingly isolated and battling internal demons. His journey is a desperate search for peace and a way to reconcile his past with his present.
Critical Reception
AWOL (2017) garnered a mixed reception from critics and audiences, with many acknowledging the film's sensitive portrayal of PTSD and the challenges faced by returning soldiers. However, some reviews pointed to pacing issues and a lack of narrative depth as significant drawbacks. The film was praised for its earnest performances but criticized for not fully exploring the complexities of its themes.
What Reviewers Say
- A poignant, albeit uneven, look at the lingering effects of war on a soldier's psyche.
- The film bravely tackles the difficult subject of PTSD, offering a somber and realistic perspective.
- While commendable in its intent, the execution occasionally falters, leading to a somewhat unsatisfying experience.
Google audience: Audience reviews for AWOL are scarce and varied, with some viewers commending the film for its emotional honesty and its focus on the mental toll of war. Others expressed that the film felt slow and underdeveloped, wishing for a more impactful narrative arc.
Fun Fact
The film was independently produced and faced significant challenges in securing wider distribution due to its sensitive subject matter.
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