Film Review - Lt. Watada

Film Review by Gary Huang - On the surface, Lt. Watada, is a straightforward film about one man’s efforts in opposing deployment to Iraq on the grounds that the war is unconstitutional. The director, Freida Lee Mock, takes us on a journey from when Lt. Watada was told by his battalion commander to gain as much knowledge about the military as he can, and Watada’s subsequent discovery from endless reading that the Iraq war is “illegal” and “based on lies.” Through the documentary, we see the David vs. Goliath battle of Lt. Watada against the US military system, and the difficulties both he and his family endure. What’s remarkable about the documentary is the way Lee Mock shows us just how difficult Watada’s fight was by taking us behind the scenes to personal interviews of the Lt., his family, and his many supporters. Through the interviews, we understand that although both of his parents are incredibly supportive, the decision to put everything on the line for one’s beliefs was Ehren Watada’s to make alone. The immense burden of this situation was easily seen on faces of the Lt.’s parents, but due to the strong determination and beliefs of the Lt., he seemed to be stress-free throughout the entire ordeal. His voice never wavered in his public and personal speeches, and it is clear his faith in justice prevailing was the only foundation he needed to support him in this battle.

When we think of Japanese Americans’ participation in the military, we immediately think of the 442nd infantry unit, an Asian American regiment composed mostly of Japanese Americans who fought during World War II. They are the most highly decorated unit in US military history, and to this day, garner a great deal of admiration for their patriotism, courage, and determination during the war.

As I watch Lt. Watada, I can’t help but hold the same praise for a man who also acted out of love for his country and countrymen. Although he fought in a different manner than the troops in 442nd, he nonetheless acted to defend the Constitution, his fellow soldiers, and most importantly, the belief in true justice.

What I have learned from the founding fathers is that true American patriotism is found on constant questioning, criticism, and doing what’s right, rather than what those in power tell us to do. Based on my definition of a true American patriot, Lt. Watada fits the bill perfectly.