Watch Erase and Forget

Erase and Forget is a documentary film directed by Andrea Luka Zimmerman and produced by Charlotte Cook. The movie explores the life of the former Green Beret, James Gordon "Bo" Gritz, who was a key figure in the Vietnam War and later became a controversial figure in American politics. The movie is a character study of Bo Gritz, who is known for his involvement in several high-profile incidents, including the Siege of Ruby Ridge, where he tried to negotiate with the white supremacist Randy Weaver, and the hunt for American POWs in Southeast Asia, which was depicted in the movie Rambo: First Blood Part II.

Throughout the movie, the filmmakers examine Bo Gritz's life in detail, from his upbringing in Oklahoma to his military career, his involvement in the Vietnam War, and his later work as a motivational speaker and political activist. The movie also includes interviews with several people who knew Gritz, including Ted Kotcheff, the director of Rambo: First Blood Part II, who gives his perspective on Gritz's role in the movie.

As the movie progresses, the filmmakers raise several thought-provoking questions, such as whether Gritz is a hero or a villain, and whether his actions were motivated by political ideals or personal gain. The movie also delves into the darker side of Gritz's personality, including his association with militia groups and his belief in conspiracy theories.

One of the key themes of the movie is the idea of erasing and forgetting, which is symbolized by Gritz's own attempts to erase his past and start a new life. The movie shows how Gritz's actions in Vietnam, including his involvement in the infamous Phoenix Program, haunted him for decades, and how he struggled to come to terms with his role in one of the most controversial episodes in American history.

The movie also touches on broader themes, such as the ethics of war, the nature of heroism, and the impact of trauma on soldiers. Through interviews with Gritz's family and friends, the movie highlights the toll that military service can take on people, and the difficulty of readjusting to civilian life after years of warfare.

Overall, Erase and Forget is a fascinating documentary that offers a unique perspective on one of the most complex figures in American history. Through its in-depth exploration of Bo Gritz's life and legacy, the movie raises important questions about the morality of war, the role of the media in shaping public opinion, and the impact of individual actions on the course of history.