Collateral Damages

Etienne Sauret's documentary Collateral Damages visits a group of New York firefighters during the year following the attacks that destroyed the World Trade Center—newly minted heroes who found themselves unprepared for the riot of emotions that followed in the wake of 9/11. The firefighters struggled to come to grips with the deaths of comrades, but were unable to move forward with their lives (several kept returning to Ground Zero to dig through the wreckage), and had to cope with an immediate iconic status (fueled by the media) from a well-meaning but often overbearing civilian population. Many truly appreciative but intrusive individuals literally forced themselves into the firehouses, creating a state of tribute overkill not easily handled by gentle diplomacy, and when the deification frenzy subsided, the firefighters were left to suffer their individual traumas alone. Combining disturbing and frequently heartbreaking interviews together with equally emotional footage (including the sight of 9/11-damaged emergency vehicles sent to be dumped at the Fresh Kills Landfill), this is a powerful look at some of the first Americans unexpectedly plunged into the war on terror. DVD extras include extensive additional footage. Highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)