The war in Iraq is still fresh in the mind of some but does anyone really understand what is like to come back home after a tour of duty.  Mike Tucker and Petra Epperlein, who also brought us Gunner Palace, now introduce us to four Iraq War veterans and their lives are like now that they've been back for a few years. 

In the film, How to Fold a Flag, we meet members of the 2/3 Field Artillery Unit: Javorn Drummond, Mike Goss, Jon Powers and Wilf Stuart.  Each has come back to a very different home situation but they're all struggling with the notion of what "home" really is.  We also notice firsthand the lack of resources for war veterans; especially, access to healthcare.  This is not the only issue these young men return to deal with at home.  There are families that need taken care of, an ailing mother just to name two.  The film is an emotional experience; I noticed a few teary eye audience members throughout the film.  It puts the audience right into the mindset of these young men... their disappointments, their sadness, their depression but also their hope that things can and will improve.  It's important to note that Jon Powers ran for Congress in 2008, a race he did not win; however, he continues on his political endevours to make things fair for all Americans.

It was noticeable throughout the film that the American flag is seen everywhere; on television, at sporting events, political rallies, etc.  As Tucker mentioned in the Q&A last night, it is a "lasting texture."  It reminds us of American rights; the very same ones that are denied to their fellow veterans.  The audience also got to meet Jon Powers and Javorn Drummond, who were the only two men in the film able to travel to Toronto.  Here is a short clip where Jon Powers tells us what he thinks of the film and how much he appreciates Mike Tucker's work in bringing forth the issues pertaining to the Iraq War. 

This film screens again on Sept 13th and Sept 19th.  For more info on times and locations, click here.