We Are Not Done Yet

We Are Not Done Yet is a heart-wrenching yet inspiring documentary film that tackles the issue of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) head-on. The 2018 movie stars Vainuupo 'A.V.' Avegalio, Anne Barlieb, and Scott Cormack. It is a poignant exploration of the seldom-seen internal struggles of returning service members and the therapeutic power of artistic expression.

The film invites viewers into the lives of a group of veterans and active-duty service members as they grapple with PTSD, the traumas of war, and the transition back to civilian life. Vainuupo 'A.V.' Avegalio's raw emotion, Anne Barlieb's moving exploration, and Scott Cormack's deeply insightful journey all serve to provide an honest portrayal of the pain and purpose found in their experiences. These personal stories intersect in a powerful display of vulnerability and resilience.

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sareen Hairabedian and produced by Jeffrey Wright (an actor who is also featured in the film) and David Holbrooke, We Are Not Done Yet successfully captures the intricate dynamics of trauma and healing. It is a masterpiece that takes a deep dive into the individual and collective journeys of a unique group of soldiers as they grapple with their past and fight to reclaim their futures.

The veterans shown in We Are Not Done Yet are not merely confronting their war-inflicted traumas; they are also working to transform their painful memories into empowering recollections through a collaborative art project. The group engages in a therapeutic process of creating a live performance of a collaborative poem under the guidance of a poet, Seema Reza. This cathartic exercise serves as both a coping mechanism and a transformative experience, freeing them from the psychological grips of their harrowing experiences.

Over the course of the movie, viewers accompany each participant on their path towards self-discovery and healing. The film allows for an empathetic understanding of what it means to be a soldier, particularly the profound toll of post-traumatic triggers and social difficulties encountered once they return home from combat. The intense rawness of their stories cuts deep, yet their courage and determination in facing adversity instill a profound sense of inspiration and admiration.

We Are Not Done Yet is more than a documentary. It is an in-depth exploration of mental health and the importance of providing the necessary support to those who risk their lives in the service of their country. Throughout the film, the group's collaboration and shared experiences also shed light on the sense of community and camaraderie that fuels their resilience in navigating their post-war realities.

The title of the film itself, We Are Not Done Yet, speaks volumes about its overall message. It serves as a powerful proclamation of the subjects' resilience, determination, and ongoing fight for inner peace and personal development. While it highlights the profound psychological impact of war, the film ultimately paints a hopeful picture of healing, echoing the soldiers' defiance towards succumbing to their traumatic experiences.

With its intimate storytelling and deeply moving narratives, We Are Not Done Yet invites audiences to connect with the all too often overlooked aftermath of war – the invisible, enduring combat that continues long after the physical battle is over. The film powerfully encapsulates the enduring struggles veterans face but also their relentless resilience, determination, and optimism that they too are works in progress – not finished stories.

We Are Not Done Yet is an emotionally charged, socially relevant film. It challenges audiences to confront the realities of war, mental health, and the power of creative expression in overcoming trauma. It serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit and a salient reminder that while the battle may have ended on the field, many soldiers are still fighting – and they are not done yet.