John Ford Goes to War

The documentary focuses on John Ford's role in the Naval Reserve during World War II and his leadership of the Field Photographic Unit. Under his direction, this unit produced at least 87 documentaries, capturing the experiences of soldiers and sailors. The film examines the themes of heroism and loss that Ford infused into these wartime narratives.

Featuring interviews with notable figures such as Kris Kristofferson, Peter Bogdanovich, and Oliver Stone, the film provides insight into Ford's life and the impact of the war on his career. It discusses how his military documentaries reflected the same values and conflicts present in his Hollywood films. Key works profiled in the documentary include "Battle of Midway," "Torpedo Squadron," and "December 7."