About Alive Day Memories: Home From Iraq

"Alive Day Memories: Home From Iraq" is a 2007 American documentary special that aired on HBO. Actor James Gandolfini interviews ten American soldiers who were injured in the Iraq War and now suffer from life-altering disabilities. It recounts their experiences while serving in Iraq and the struggles they face reintegrating into society post-war.

Making / Production

The documentary was executive produced by James Gandolfini, Alexandra Ryan, and Sheila Nevins with HBO Documentary Films. Gandolfini, best known for his role in The Sopranos, spent considerable time with injured veterans at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center which inspired him to create this documentary.

Actors

• James Gandolfini - As the interviewer, Gandolfini respectfully connects with the soldiers to bring forth their untold stories.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The documentary is shot entirely in black and white which helps accentuate the emotional depth and serious tone of the interviews.
• "Alive Day" in the title refers to the day that a soldier narrowly escaped death in the battlefield. Every soldier who is interviewed recounts their "alive day".

Awards

Alive Day Memories: Home From Iraq received three Emmy nominations including: Outstanding Non-Fiction Special, Outstanding Directing and Outstanding Cinematography.

Quotes

• "This is the reality of war, this is the reality of life." - James Gandolfini
• "I wouldn't take it back for the world. It's the best decision I ever made." - Soldier, reflecting on his choice to serve.

Music, Soundtrack

• Music in the documentary is kept minimal, focusing more on the stories of the soldiers. Dramatic music scores by Jon Draper accentuate crucial moments in the narratives.