Today: While You Were Away (1964-1973 Retrospective)

About This Movie

So, 'Today: While You Were Away' is a pretty interesting documentary, really. It takes you through a retrospective lens on the homecoming of POWs from 1964 to 1973, and you can feel the weight of their experiences throughout. The pacing feels reflective, almost meditative, which suits the somber themes of war and loss. There’s a rawness in some of the interviews that just sticks with you, and while the director is unknown, the way they capture the emotions is quite striking. It’s not flashy, but there’s a certain authenticity in its simplicity, and that makes it distinctive amidst a lot of other war documentaries from that era.

This documentary has had a limited release over the years, primarily seen in television broadcasts rather than physical formats, which adds to its obscurity. There aren’t many known copies floating around, and it’s particularly sought after by collectors interested in war history and the portrayal of POW experiences. Its unique topic and the way it handles such a deep subject make it an intriguing piece for anyone focused on documentary filmmaking from the 1970s.