Buried Above Ground

"Buried Above Ground" is a profoundly touching and insightful film that explores the devastating impacts of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on individuals. It premiered in 2015 and mainly follows the story of Luis Carlos Montalvan, a decorated United States military officer, alongside other central characters like Erundina Lopez. Each individual presents a unique perspective on PTSD, allowing the audience to gain a broad understanding of the condition.

The narrative of "Buried Above Ground" is orchestrated by renowned documentary filmmaker Ben Selkow, who resorts to a deeply personal and compassionate storytelling style that offers an intimate look into the lives of people living with PTSD. With an incisive gaze, Selkow guides viewers through the lives of his subjects - presenting them as more than mere emblems of PTSD, but as complex humans with their own hopes, dreams, fears, and histories.

The film's main character, Luis Montalvan, a decorated captain who gave twelve years of service to the U.S. Army had his life dramatically altered after two tours in Iraq. The movie unfolds his arduous journey to recovery, giving viewers a sense of the distressing repercussions of war on returning veterans' mental health. Luis's narrative is enhanced by his emotional rawness, through his struggles and triumphs - including his authorship of an acclaimed book, "Until Tuesday: A Wounded Warrior and the Golden Retriever Who Saved Him"- and his advocacy for veterans and those experiencing PTSD.

Another participant, Erundina Lopez, offers another perspective on PTSD. Raised in a chaotic, violent environment, Erundina's struggles with substance abuse and the lifelong consequences of a traumatic childhood are brought to light. Her narrative is a stark reminder of how PTSD is not relegated to acts of war alone, but can be a lifelong companion for those who've lived through turbulent and traumatic personal lives.

In "Buried Above Ground," the violence does not reside in dramatized flashbacks or bloody scenes, but in the emotional pain the characters are forced to grapple with daily; violence becomes a psychological condition, continually reenacted in the minds of those who suffer. Through collected observations, therapy sessions, and personal interviews, Selkow accurately charts the long and tumultuous journey towards healing, capturing the essence of what it truly means to struggle with PTSD.

In its courageous exploration of mental health, "Buried Above Ground" goes beyond stereotypical tales of survival and resilience to underscore the magnitude of trauma and the long, often invisible, processes of healing. The movie lays bare that no formula exists for recovery - each individual's journey is unique and complex, fraught with setbacks but also heartfelt triumphs. This film is not only about the struggles of its main characters but also about their immense strength and resilience in the face of adversity.

"Buried Above Ground" is much more than a documentary - it is a vivid testament to the human spirit's indomitable will. With its powerful cinematography and narrative proficiency, the film puts a human face on PTSD, squelching the notion that it is an ailment only for the feeble-minded. The movie manages to be informative without being pedantic, emotional without being manipulative, and inspiring without resorting to cliché.

In conclusion, "Buried Above Ground" is an intense, emotional, and enlightening journey through the lives of three individuals battling the debilitating effects of PTSD. It is as much an exploration of the universal human experience of suffering and resilience as it is a specific study of PTSD. Filled with moments of hardship, hope, and healing, it provides a deeply affecting and compassionate portrayal of life after trauma. Whether you come to the film for understanding, or empathy, or the compelling power of its stories, "Buried Above Ground" is a viewing experience you won't quickly forget.