Severe Clear 2010

Shot by First Lieutenant Mike Scotti using his Mini-DV camera, Severe Clear presents a gripping and personal account of the Marines who found themselves on the front lines during Operation Iraqi Freedom. This film is not just a documentary; it is a deeply intimate portrayal of what these soldiers experienced and witnessed in the heat of battle.

In an era dominated by embedded journalists and filmmakers who narrate tales of war through digital platforms, Severe Clear effectively dissolves the barriers that typically separate the audience from the soldier’s experience. It personalizes the fear, moral dilemmas, and the adrenaline rush that come with life in combat. At the core of this powerful narrative is the journey of Mike Scotti and the Marines in his unit, whose stories weave together the harrowing and often disturbing realities of war.

The narrative begins with Scotti’s compelling journey across the Arabian Sea aboard the USS Boxer, where he spends 40 days immersed in rigorous physical training, tactical preparations, and mental conditioning. Understandably, for the Marines who have existed in a continuous state of conflict since the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the political maneuverings of leaders and the debates over UN resolutions appear as mere façades. They are all too aware that the war is not just a distant prospect, but an inescapable reality. Thus, they train hard, find ways to relieve stress, and simply await the inevitable call to action.

As the film progresses, President Bush addresses the nation and initiates Operation Iraqi Freedom. What starts as a fervor of patriotism and youthful zeal soon gives way to a stark confrontation with the brutal truths of war. As resistance to their presence intensifies in Iraq, Mike Scotti and his fellow soldiers must grapple with the profound implications of their circumstances. Each moment spent amidst the chaos serves to challenge their perceptions of honor, duty, and the sacrifices they face.

Severe Clear is more than just a war film; it is a raw depiction that effectively captures the chaos and complexity of being at war, thrusting the viewer directly into the tumultuous environment faced by these brave Marines. The film is a testimony to the harrowing realities and the intense human experiences that accompany military conflict, making it both necessary and eye-opening for anyone seeking to understand the life of a soldier.