War movies usually
tend to gross more than war documentaries because they are more dramatic. Even
if they are advertised as a real event or based on a true story they are
usually stretched, edited, or dramatized to attract viewers. Documentaries, on
the other hand, are meant to tell a true story or to educate viewers on real
life situations.
A documentary’s purpose is to give true facts
on an event. Some of the situations dealt with are how the soldiers and veterans,
which actually went through some of these things, feel about this. Many critics
point out a movie’s inaccuracies, such as military lingo, uniforms, or military
culture. However, they do enjoy the action and special effects of the movies. A
documentary, on the other hand, is less worried about spicing up the show with
special effects and extras. Critics of a documentary might point out how well
the documentation was, or how well the cast received the documentation.
Movies such as
The Hurt Locker received mixed reviews. Some critics were upset at
how the cast portrayed the army. The main character was reckless and
insubordinate. Soldiers became upset at the inaccuracy, it made them look
reckless. Other critics liked the portrayal of a rugged and courageous soldier.
It was entertaining and made him look more heroic.
Documentaries such as
Restrepo also had mixed reviews. Many critics liked that it was
real, with no actors or exaggerations involved. The documentary’s creators,
Sebastian Junger and Tim Hethrington, said that they wanted the documentary to
show the real version of what the soldiers went through so that they can truly be
honored as heroes. One of the creators also stated that he was afraid of how
the military would react to them having as much access as they did. He said,
"It has certainly raised eyebrows within the US military establishment."
Movies may be action-packed and dramatic, but in my opinion, watching a
truthful and accurate documentary is more entertaining.
