To Know Us Is To Love Us

About This Movie

To Know Us Is To Love Us, John Pilger's debut documentary, strikes a poignant tone as it captures the aftermath of the Vietnam War from a uniquely humane perspective. Set in Fort Smith, Arkansas, it showcases the community's embrace of South Vietnamese refugees, reflecting on themes of loss, compassion, and cultural displacement. The pacing feels deliberate, allowing moments of genuine connection to breathe. It’s a raw blend of interviews and on-the-ground footage that evokes an atmosphere of both sorrow and hope. The performances, while not scripted, come through in the heartfelt stories of those affected—giving it a realness that's hard to ignore. It’s a distinctive piece that sits on the edge of history and human experience, a reflection on a difficult time.

This documentary is relatively rare on physical media, with only a handful of releases over the years, making it somewhat elusive for collectors. The scarcity adds to its appeal, especially for those interested in Vietnam War narratives or socio-political documentaries. It tends to fly under the radar compared to more mainstream titles, yet it holds a certain depth that is rewarding for those who delve into its themes and historical context.