An extreme-sports/outdoors documentary short feature, Dropzone: Everest bids as much to memorialize casualties of the US occupation of Afghanistan as it does to stage some stirring skydiving stunts over Nepal. Some viewers may find that a curious mix. Others will endorse the patriotic cause underlying all the machismo footage.
Know that "Extortion 17" (one-seven) was the call sign attached to a major US disaster of the war in Afghanistan. In August 2011, a Taliban missile shot down an American helicopter and killed all 38 aboard, including 17 Navy SEALS (of the illustrious SEAL Team Six). In Dropzone: Everest, former SEAL Mike Saraille memorializes the casualties of Extortion 17 (and raises money for the families) by doing high-altitude parachute jumps in one of the most challenging of environments: the high altitudes of Mount Everest. The stunning landscapes of the Himalayas are breathtaking.
Seraille and other veterans who are hardcore skydivers (persevering despite accumulating back and hip injuries) train for the thin atmosphere. They also attend Tibetan Buddhist "Puja" ceremonies for their success—and one sincerely hopes viewers appreciate that swastikas involved are ancient Sanskrit symbols signifying good health and fortune, long before the Nazis appropriated them.
Dangerous weather at the base camp delays the jump. The narration continues throughout, about the sacrifice and valor exhibited by Extortion 17's fatalities. One rather wishes that when the long-awaited event happens, there might be more contemplative silence amidst the plunges through epochal mountain ranges. That would have spoken just as loudly as the continuing narration about honor, duty, and bravery.
Nevertheless, Drop Zone: Everest stands out as an impactful film. It goes beyond the typical adventure documentary by shining a light on the importance of honoring those who have sacrificed for their country. With its powerful storytelling and captivating visuals, Drop Zone: Everest serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit.
What public library shelves would this title be on?
Travel and sports library shelves are the primary placement for this title, along with war and veteran-oriented topics.
What academic subjects would this film be suitable for?
Current events, social work (as specific to veteran issues) as well as Tibet/Nepalese culture, might recruit the feature as a teaching tool.
What type of classroom would this documentary be used as an educational resource?
Junior-high level and above are acceptable base camps.