Watch James Blunt: Return to Kosovo

James Blunt: Return to Kosovo is a 2007 documentary film directed by Tom Pursey and narrated by musician James Blunt. The film follows Blunt as he returns to Kosovo, a war-torn country he served in as a member of the British Armed Forces during the NATO bombing campaign in 1999. Blunt is deeply invested in the history and culture of Kosovo, having spent several months there as a peacekeeper over a decade earlier. In Return to Kosovo, he revisits some of the places he saw during his time there and reconnects with people he met on his first tour of duty.

The film is an exploration of the impact of war on a nation and its people, and Blunt is a thoughtful and empathetic guide. He visits schools and hospitals, talks to locals about their experiences during the war, and attends a number of events designed to bring people together and promote healing and reconciliation.

Throughout the film, Blunt reflects on his own memories of the conflict and the role of music in his life, both during his time in Kosovo and in his subsequent career as a musician. There are interludes in which he performs some of his best-known songs, including "Beautiful," "You're Beautiful," and "Goodbye My Lover."

One of the most striking aspects of Return to Kosovo is the emotional resonance of the stories told by the people Blunt meets. He speaks with former soldiers, war widows, and traumatized children who were all affected by the conflict in different ways. Blunt is an effective interviewer, allowing people to tell their stories without imposing his own agenda or worldview on them.

At the same time, Blunt does not shy away from expressing his own opinions about the war and its aftermath. He is critical of the politicians and military leaders who he feels were responsible for the conflict, and he is an advocate for peace and reconciliation.

Return to Kosovo is a powerful and moving film that explores the personal and political dimensions of war and its aftermath. Blunt's presence provides a unique perspective on the conflict and its legacy, and his empathy and humility make him an effective guide to the people and places he encounters.

In the end, Return to Kosovo is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Despite the scars left by the war, the people of Kosovo are shown to be working towards a better future, and Blunt's presence reflects a genuine desire to help them in any way he can.

Overall, James Blunt: Return to Kosovo is a documentary film that is well worth watching for anyone interested in the human dimension of war and its aftermath. Blunt's perspective as both a soldier and a musician adds depth and complexity to the story, and the personal stories he captures are both heartwarming and heartbreaking.