Award Winning Film at a Price that Can't Be Beat

With the Memorial Day weekend about to kick off, today's Freebie has a "thankful to the men and women who have served our country" kind of vibe. A few weeks back, the hubby and I had the chance to stop by the Cultural Center for a screening of the documentary film Hell and Back Again. The screening was a part of the ITVS Community Cinema series. (have I mentioned how much I love the Chicago Cultural Center?)

In addition to being nominated for an Academy Award for best documentary in 2012, Hell and Back Again also won the Cinematography AND Grand Jury Prize at the 2011 Sundance film festival. After experiencing it - and that is what you do, you don't "watch" it you experience it - I can attest this film is a work of art.

It is the astounding story of a soldier's time in and return home from the war in Afghanistan. It is a must see.

And I have good news for you. Public television is making it possible for you to see this masterpiece from the comfort of your living room as a part of its Independent Lens collection.  Independent Lens is an Emmy award winning series aired weekly on PBS. If you are in Chicago, Hell and Back Again will air on Monday May 28th @9pm on WTTW. Set your DVR. If you aren't in Chicago, please check your local listings and don't miss your chance to see this film for free.

There is no doubt, this documentary made me even more thankful for our service men and women. It made me even more amazed by the bravery and sacrifice they and their families exhibit. It made me grateful for the opportunity to learn more about the war and a handful of its participants. 

Have you seen Hell and Back Again?

If so, what did you think?

The Cultural Center's  ITVS Community Cinema series is winding down for the summer. But there is one more chance to catch a freebie screening. At 6:30pm on Tuesday, May 29th they will be showing the documentary Strong. See you there?