Library Journal Review

This newest film from director Dick (Outrage; This Film Is Not Yet Rated) hits hard at the U.S. armed forces as he scrupulously details the culture of sexual abuse against women that exists in all branches of the military. He documents the problem through numerous on-camera interviews with women who were raped and expands to examine the systemic blame-the-victim attitude as seen in such cases as Tailhook (1991) and the incidents involving the U.S. Air Force Academy (2003). Interviews with senior military personnel in charge of prevention programs illustrate the woeful inadequacy of their efforts and their willful ignorance. Dick does an outstanding job of balancing the stark reality of facts and statistics against the emotional impact on victims and their families. The viewer learns that over 20 percent of female veterans were sexually assaulted while on active duty and sees the pain suffered when their claims are ignored. The mental anguish lasts far longer than the time in service and goes deeper than the physical trauma to feelings of extreme betrayal and loss of trust. The Invisible War educates as it angers. VERDICT This extremely well-done production presents a critical educational opportunity for libraries of all sizes.-Catherine Gilmore, MLS, Portland, OR (c) Copyright 2013. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.