Watch Going Upriver

Going Upriver is a documentary film that tells the story of John Kerry's military service in Vietnam and his subsequent activism in the anti-war movement upon his return to the United States. The film uses archival footage, photographs, and interviews with Kerry, his fellow veterans, and anti-war activists to create a compelling account of the political and social turmoil of the late 1960s and early 1970s.

The film begins with Kerry's arrival in Vietnam in 1968 as a Naval officer. He quickly becomes disillusioned with the war and sees firsthand the atrocities committed by American soldiers. Despite receiving three Purple Hearts, Kerry becomes an outspoken critic of the war and begins working with other veterans to raise awareness of the realities of combat and the need for peace. The film includes footage of Kerry's testimony before Congress in 1971, where he spoke out against the war and called for the U.S. to withdraw its troops from Vietnam.

Going Upriver also explores the political context of the anti-war movement, including the role of the media in shaping public opinion and the impact of the Civil Rights Movement on broader political activism. The film highlights the pivotal role played by young people, including college students and the draft resisters who risked imprisonment to protest the war.

The film is not only a tribute to the courage and sacrifice of John Kerry and other veterans but also to the power of activism and citizen engagement to effect change. Going Upriver shows how Kerry and other veterans translated their experiences into a movement for peace, propelled by a belief in the power of democracy and the importance of fighting for what is right.

Throughout the film, there are moments of great emotion and inspiration as veterans and activists recount their stories and express their passion for the cause of peace. The film captures the rawness of the moment and the sense of urgency that drove the anti-war movement forward.

Going Upriver also provides a fascinating glimpse into John Kerry's personal life and the influence that his early experiences had on his political career. The film portrays Kerry as a principled and committed leader, unafraid to take unpopular stands and to stand up for his beliefs. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of leadership in times of crisis and the need for individuals to have the courage to speak truth to power.

In conclusion, Going Upriver is a gripping and moving documentary that captures the spirit of the anti-war movement and the significance of John Kerry's leadership. The film is a testament to the resilience and determination of those who fought for peace in a time of war and serves as both a valuable historical document and a source of inspiration for those who continue to fight for justice and democracy today.

Going Upriver is a 2004 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 27 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.8 and a MetaScore of 70.