The Observer, September 19, 2008
Volume XLI, Issue 4
Donahue opens eyes of soldiers and civilians alike with Body of War
When Phil Donahue was introduced as the latest recipient of Ohio Citizen Action's Howard M. Metzenbaum Award on Sept. 14, he was described by Susan Hyatt (Metzenbaum's daughter) as a "pioneer and innovator," and was honored for his "unwillingness to be silenced." Many may recognize Donahue's name and television personality, but are not fully aware of his noteworthy contributions to daytime television.
When The Phil Donahue Show aired in 1967 on WLWD-TV, it was the first time America had seen a host implement audience participation and challenge everyday people on controversial issues. During the course of Donahue's Emmy-winning show, he interviewed some of the most influential figures in history such as Martin Luther King Jr., and a wide array of politicians, celebrities, and ordinary citizens. Fearless and unstoppable, Donahue epitomizes the ideal of "standing up for what is right."
After Donahue's latest show on MSNBC was cancelled (though it held the highest rating), a studio leak revealed that NBC believed Donahue would be "a difficult problem for NBC in a time of war." However, cancelling his show did not stop Donahue from voicing his opinions on the war in Iraq, one of the most controversial issues of today. In fact, he and Ellen Spiro co-wrote and directed Body of War, a documentary focused on Thomas Young, a young man who was paralyzed after taking a bullet to his spine while serving in Iraq.
Despite his fantastic sense of humor and jokes about being overshadowed by his famous wife Marlo Thomas, Donahue continues to passionately articulate his genuine dedication to anti-war activism and his friend, Thomas Young. Body of War follows the emotional and physical setbacks of Young's handicap. It was voted Best Documentary of 2007 by the National Board of Review and was even short-listed for an Oscar. Time magazine called it a "superb documentary...almost unbearably moving." Some of the most moving footage includes a scene of Young struggling to dress himself and clips of Senator Robert Byrd's speeches in opposition to the war. One particularly powerful quote of Byrd's was when he addressed the fact that young men and women would die in Iraq: "I don't want that on my conscience. Not I."
Also, Young's wise mother could bring anyone to tears as they watch her cope with the effect of the war on her sons (her youngest enlisted in the Army as well.) Heart-wrenching and magnificently made, Body of War is a must-see documentary for any American, regardless of their political beliefs.
It is Donahue's goal that Body of War will be shown to those considering enlisting in the draft, on college campuses, and to those who may not be well educated on the war. Donahue hopes his film will "shed light in a black hole that corporate media has created." When asked further about the significance of Body of War, Donahue answered, "You can't feel it if you can't see it." As cliché as it sounds, this documentary will surely make you feel. Even Eddie Vedder (lead singer of Pearl Jam) wrote a song for the film specifically catered to Young (for free) to support Donahue's cause. In any case, Body of War is a worthwhile documentary that will be sure to speak to any audience.
