Saved Rounds

The military is our line of defense composed of the brave men and women who are risking their lives for the security of our country and serve the world with all its good intention. The institution produces these courageous men and women in uniform equipped with tactical knowledge and battlefield skills always ready to takedown combat missions from anywhere in the world. These brave soldiers develop a strong sense of camaraderie that turns into a brotherhood that goes beyond blood ties which strengthens the pack more and ensuring that they got each other’s back and no one gets left behind no matter what. However, it is no secret that these soldiers don’t hold on to a happily ever after in their story. The reality of having one of their foot already stepping at their grave on every mission proves how much they are willing to risk even if it cost them their lives. A soldier’s story always catches my interest, I believe that there is always an untold story or words needed to be spoken behind every man in service. That is why today, I am truly honored to share with you a film directed by John Finn and written by Deborah Leonhardt together with the multi-talented Doc Farrow titled “Saved Rounds”

Just a quick note, the phrase “Saved Rounds” in the military means a piece of extra information that a person forgot to say after telling everyone they can leave. But what would happen if that person is no longer around to tell it himself to the people who need to hear it the most? Would you go deliver the message even if every second of it kills you? Or go down the other way to save yourself from the pain that has already consumed you? Saved Rounds tells the story of Doc’s journey, a former Navy Corpsman who has been regretting he outlived his marines after their mission in Iraq. The story of this movie reminded me of the 2009 film by Oren Moverman, The Messenger, however, they differ in many ways. Saved Rounds is extra-special for me because of Doc’s evident personal attachment to his character and the story. I also love that it is very entertaining and creative, and needless to say funny too. I like that they were able to balance the drama and the comedy. The timing of the transition from a heavy scene to breaking the ice is seamlessly perfect. A huge part of that is because of the cast’s impressive performance, John Laughlin, Deborah Leonhardt, Isabella Serrano, Hector Salas and of course Doc Farrow all did amazingly well. Each of them contributed an immense factor that made the role of their character impacting and the story juicier.

I appreciate stories like this because aside from showcasing the story of a fallen soldier, they gave focus on the coping mechanism of death, getting pass guilt and self-blame, and the process of letting go and healing. This is one of the best drama comedy I have seen this season. Everything simply blended well with everything, I couldn’t ask for more. Excellent Work Team Saved Rounds!