G.I. Jesús

Belgian-born director/producer Carl Colpaert's seventh film combines the usually separate genres of docudrama (with actual combat footage) and surrealism, suggesting a low-budget blend between Redacted, A Beautiful Mind, and The Manchurian Candidate. Shot on digital video, the abstract narrative begins as Jesús (Joe Arquette), a Mexican national, returns to Los Angeles after serving a tour in Iraq (he joined the Marines to attain American citizenship). His wife Claudia (Patrícia Mota) and seven-year-old daughter Marina (Telana Lynum), offer a warm welcome, but before long Jesús is accosted by an accusatory Iraqi (whom no one else can see) named Mohammed (Maurizio Farhad), and begins to experience flashbacks (some of them in eerie night-vision green), as well as notice signs—that may be as illusory as Mohammed—indicating that Claudia has been unfaithful. Other scenes play out so awkwardly it's hard to tell if they're real, such as when military personnel admit their participation in various governmental conspiracies, followed by a game of musical chairs set to the Mamas and the Papas' “California Dreamin'.” Overall, G.I. Jesus may be sluggish and somewhat incoherent, but this anti-war film is also often strangely compelling. DVD extras include auditions, a photo gallery, and cast and crew bios. A strong optional purchase. (K. Fennessy)