Some films politely knock at the door of one’s attention; In Waves and War simply kicks it in, offers a seat, and pours a stiff drink of truth. Directed by Jon Shenk and Bonni Cohen, it invites viewers into the turbulent inner worlds of retired United States Navy SEALs, blending solemn reality with a surprising undercurrent of human warmth. It is gripping, darkly humorous in moments, and deeply humane, leading to an even more compelling element.

What makes it truly fascinating is the extraordinary real story powering it, adding emotional depth, and a level of raw authenticity that elevates the documentary beyond mere viewing.

Trigger Warning: The article has mentions of disorders like PTSD, traumatic brain injuries and psychedelics. User discretion is advised.

The real story behind In Waves and War traces the emotional and psychological battles faced by retired United States Navy SEALs, including Marcus Capone, Matty Roberts, and DJ Shipley. Despite distinguished service in Iraq and Afghanistan, these elite veterans returned home with severe post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injuries, depression, and self-destructive coping habits. Their spouses, including Amber Capone, witnessed families deteriorating under the weight of untreated trauma, prompting a desperate search for effective intervention beyond standard military healthcare.

When conventional therapies and Veterans Affairs support failed, the veterans pursued an unorthodox solution: psychedelic-assisted treatment using ibogaine and 5-MeO-DMT in Mexico, where such therapies operate outside United States law. Marcus Capone’s dramatic recovery led Marcus and Amber Capone to establish Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions, a non-profit assisting veterans in accessing similar care and advocating for legislative reform to legitimize these treatments for military trauma.

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The real-life story behind In Waves and War intensifies the documentary’s impact, transforming it from compelling viewing into an essential, must-watch experience.

One ought to watch In Waves and War because it refuses to let comfortable audiences ignore what happens when decorated soldiers return to civilian life with unbearable burdens. The documentary replaces polite euphemisms with the unadorned truth of post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injuries, and the emotional shrapnel that lodges itself in family life. It offers clarity with the same unexpected effectiveness that Netflix has applied in resurrecting President James A. Garfield's story for modern contemplation.

The film also serves as a firm indictment of traditional veteran healthcare, showing how rigid systems and pharmaceutical dependency fail those who require innovative solutions. What begins as a portrait of pain evolves into a narrative of resilience, advocacy, and systemic reform through organisations such as Veterans Exploring Treatment Solutions. Viewers are left not only informed, but compelled to reflect, empathise, and consider their own role in encouraging meaningful change for those who served.

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What do you think of In Waves and War's real-life story? Let us know in the comments!