About Thank You for Your Service

Explore:

• Plot
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music
• Soundtrack

Plot

Thank You for Your Service is a drama film released in 2017. Directed by Jason Hall, the movie is based on the non-fiction book of the same name by David Finkel. It chronicles the lives of U.S. Army soldiers who return from Iraq and struggle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and their attempts to reintegrate into civilian life. The film follows Sergeant Adam Schumann and his fellow squad members, Solo and Billy, as they grapple with the trauma of war and navigate the challenges of readjusting to everyday life. They try to seek support through the Veterans Affairs system but face numerous obstacles and bureaucratic red tape. As the soldiers battle their own inner demons, their relationships with their families and friends also become strained. The film explores the profound impact of war on the mental health of soldiers and sheds light on the often overlooked issue of PTSD. The narrative delves into the emotional toll of war and highlights the urgent need for improved mental health services for veterans. It portrays the resilience and strength of the soldiers as they confront their past and strive for a sense of normalcy. Thank You for Your Service offers a thought-provoking and compassionate exploration of the challenges faced by veterans, drawing attention to the ongoing struggles they endure even after returning home from war.

Making / Production

Thank You for Your Service was written and directed by Jason Hall, who also wrote the screenplay for American Sniper. The film is based on David Finkel's non-fiction book that tells the stories of real-life veterans struggling with PTSD. Hall conducted in-depth research and interviews with veterans to ensure the film captured the authentic experiences and emotions of those dealing with post-war trauma. The production team collaborated closely with veterans and mental health experts to accurately depict the challenges faced by combat veterans and the impact of PTSD on their lives. The filmmakers aimed to raise awareness about the importance of accessible mental health support for veterans and the urgent need for societal understanding and empathy. To create a realistic portrayal of Iraq, the filmmakers employed production designer David J. Bomba and cinematographer Roman Vasyanov. They utilized an immersive shooting style, incorporating handheld cameras to provide an intimate and raw perspective on the characters' experiences. The movie was primarily filmed in the United States, with some scenes taking place in Morocco. The production team worked diligently to recreate the war-torn landscapes and convey the physical and emotional toll of war. Overall, Thank You for Your Service was crafted with careful attention to detail and a commitment to authenticity, aiming to provide a powerful and honest portrayal of the challenges faced by returning soldiers and their fight for redemption.

Actors

• Miles Teller as Sergeant Adam Schumann - Teller delivers a poignant and emotional performance as the film's protagonist, portraying the internal struggles and resilience of a soldier grappling with PTSD and trying to rebuild his life.
• Haley Bennett as Saskia Schumann - Bennett plays the role of Adam's wife, Saskia, depicting the challenges faced by military spouses and their own journey of healing and understanding.
• Joe Cole as Billy Waller - Cole portrays Billy, one of Adam's squad members and closest friends, showcasing the emotional turmoil and battles faced by a soldier haunted by his experiences in war.
• Beulah Koale as Emory Doster - Koale plays Emory, another member of Adam's squad, depicting his struggle with mental health issues and the impact it has on his relationships.
• Amy Schumer as Amanda Doster - Schumer takes a departure from her usual comedic roles and delivers a heartfelt performance as Emory's wife, providing an empathetic portrayal of a spouse trying to support her husband through his traumatic experiences.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film marks Jason Hall's directorial debut. He previously gained recognition for his screenplay adaptation of American Sniper.
• Thank You for Your Service features real veterans in supporting roles, further emphasizing the authenticity and realism of the film.
• The movie received critical acclaim for its sensitive portrayal of PTSD and its impact on soldiers and their families.
• It serves as a companion piece to American Sniper, exploring the aftermath of war and the mental health struggles faced by veterans.

Awards

While Thank You for Your Service did not receive any major awards, it was praised by critics and audiences alike for its powerful performances and compelling portrayal of the challenges faced by veterans.

Quotes

• "We're soldiers. We get used to it." - Sergeant Adam Schumann
• "You can't see what you can't see." - Solo
• "We're the ones that aren't going home." - Sergeant Adam Schumann
• "I came back to a war zone." - Emory Doster

Music

The original score for Thank You for Your Service was composed by Thomas Newman. The score reflects the emotional journey of the characters and elevates the intensity and poignancy of the scenes throughout the film.

Soundtrack

• "Pentatonix" by Papa Roach
• "The Unknown Soldier" by The Doors
• "Home" by Phillip Phillips
• "Fortunate Son" by Creedence Clearwater Revival
• "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" by Regina Spektor