‘Men of War’ Review: Masculine Bravado Runs Amok in Doc Examining How a Coup Failed in Venezuela

As a seasoned movie critic with years of service under my belt, I can confidently say that “Men Of War” is a gripping documentary that leaves you questioning the lines between heroism and folly. The filmmakers have masterfully crafted a tale that is as propulsive as an action film, yet as intricate as a political thriller.

In filmmakers Jen Gatien and Billy Corben’s documentary “Men Of War”, the central figure is Jordan Goudreau, a former Green Beret and special forces operative who orchestrated an unsuccessful coup against Venezuela‘s government. This man, brimming with confidence and arrogance, often quotes ancient Greek philosopher Heraclitus and avoids introspection. In this film, Goudreau is portrayed as a complex character – brave yet greedy, power-hungry yet gullible, loyal but also seemingly stupid, a victim of PTSD, and a man who struggles to accept the repercussions of his actions. Essentially, he comes across as a mercenary who believes himself to be a righteous soldier, yet fails to comprehend the moral complexities of his actions.

As a movie enthusiast, I’d put it like this: “I found myself captivated by the narrative structure of the film that revolves around the infamous coup attempt, specifically Operation Gideon – a 2020 sea invasion of Venezuela orchestrated by a mix of local dissidents and American mercenaries, aiming to topple President Nicolas Maduro. The directors skillfully weave together this ill-fated incursion’s aftermath, highlighting the survivors’ stories: a journalist, an army general, a Miami-based dissident who happens to be the brother of one of the detained American mercenaries, and the architect of it all – Goudreau. The movie unfolds with a thrilling intensity reminiscent of action films that Goudreau himself admires. It delves into Goudreau’s past as a soldier during the post-9/11 wars in the Middle East, yet keeps the primary focus on 2019 and 2020, the crucial period leading up to this debacle.

In his interview setting, the filmmakers outfit Goudreau with contemporary accessories symbolizing a modern-day American cowboy. He’s dressed in subdued colors reminiscent of military uniforms, seated next to a Harley Davidson motorcycle and with a fire burning nearby. Without a hint of sarcasm or satire, he describes himself as a cinematic military hero, resembling characters like Jason Bourne and Rambo. His portrayal is similar to the adventurous, thrill-seeking personas in films like “Apocalypse Now” and “Starship Troopers.” However, he appears oblivious to any complex themes in these narratives other than military heroism.

He always speaks in war jargon; he did not attempt a coup d’etat in Venezuela but rather was “catalyzing a regime change to free 30 million people.” He believes he’s upholding the pillars of American democracy; and, if there’s a little money to be made on the side, why not? The film peels off all this bravado to uncover the hollowness inside him and the grave consequences he’s inflicted on his friends and collaborators. Those who bought into his big talk paid the price with their lives and freedom. The doc is a condemnation of American masculinity and bluster.

While “Men of War” presents a gripping portrayal of events, it’s also a sharp critique of American foreign policy that feels like an extraordinary conspiracy theory. Mercenary Jordan Goudreau had connections within the U.S. government and entered into an agreement with representatives of Venezuela’s opposition. There is some validity to his account. The filmmakers frequently intercut denials from Trump-era administration officials whenever Goudreau or other witnesses implicate a U.S. politician, creating a haunting ambiance that makes the story seem more credible as a covert foreign policy endeavor rather than an implausible tall tale. However, the directors never take a clear stance; instead, they leave it to the viewers to decide the truth. The only time they intervene is through an unseen interviewer’s voice that occasionally challenges Goudreau’s assertions and probes his justified anger.

Shady and shadowy figures abound and make for amusing interview subjects. They act both as Goudreau’s defenders and as independent whistleblowers who undermine everything he says — sometimes simultaneously. The filmmakers manage to juggle all these testimonies within a fast-paced and entertaining framework. Only at the end does the film lose its kinetic rhythm. In attempting to add depth to Goudreau by showing him interacting with parents, the film forgets that it has already revealed all his complexities. There is no need for this extraneous material; the focus should’ve remained on the operation itself.

The documentary titled ‘Men of War’ keeps audiences captivated as it tackles heavy topics related to modern international politics and America’s ongoing war mentality. It scrutinizes the nation’s persistent war tendencies and explores the psychological wellbeing of its soldiers. The film tells an absurd yet consequential tale that drastically affected numerous lives. However, its most powerful message revolves around these men who stubbornly cling to their self-delusions despite reality. This isn’t only about Goudreau but also encompasses others involved in operations in Venezuela, Colombia, or the United States. Some were his allies, while others were opponents. Yet, they all blindly followed his arrogant decrees, leading them all to disaster. It is disheartening that the film exposes these individuals without many of them suffering significant consequences.

2024-09-07 03:46

‘Men of War’ Review: Masculine Bravado Runs Amok in Doc Examining How a Coup Failed in Venezuela

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