Heroes of Iwo Jima

Chronicling the history of a photograph that has become etched in the memory of the American people as a national icon--the raising of the U.S. flag on Mount Suribachi, an image recreated on postage stamps, monuments, and featured in tons of coffee table books on WWII--Heroes of Iwo Jima, hosted and narrated by Gene Hackman, presents the real story of the flag raising, set against the backdrop of one of the most horrible battles of the war. None of the people involved--neither photographer Joe Rosenthal, nor the men portrayed--returned to normal lives, and several died under tragic circumstances. Shot mostly in color, this compelling documentary not only shows how an historical moment can be captured (and created) in a single powerful image, but also offers illuminating commentary on a major battle that claimed over 25,000 lives. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (J. Carlson)