Retrograde

Retrograde is a war drama film directed by Nick Locastro, offering a poignant and introspective portrayal of the complexities and struggles of the final stages of the 20-year war in Afghanistan. The story revolves around the intricate relationship between American Green Berets and the Afghan officers they have trained, highlighting the personal bonds that form amidst the turmoil and chaos of war. At the heart of the film is Lieutenant Commander Jim 'Hawk' Hawkins, a seasoned Green Beret who, with his team, is tasked with securing a critical outpost in eastern Afghanistan. Their mission is to gather and prepare the Afghan Local Security Forces (ALS) for the impending withdrawal of U.S. forces, marking the end of America's two-decade-long involvement in the country. As tensions escalate, and the situation on the ground becomes increasingly volatile, Hawk and his men develop a deep sense of camaraderie with the Afghan officers, led by the charismatic Colonel Wahid. Their bond stems from shared experiences, mutual respect, and a deep-seated understanding of the challenges they face. The Afghan officers, despite their own cultural and linguistic differences, have been trained by the Americans to become formidable fighters capable of protecting their country. The narrative is deeply personal and explores the consequences of long-term deployments, as Hawk's team struggles to come to terms with the prospect of leaving behind the men they have grown to trust and admire. The withdrawal of U.S. forces, dubbed 'Retrograde,' serves as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of relationships forged in the midst of war. As Hawk and his team prepare to leave, the Afghan officers, though well-trained, are left to face an uncertain future. The film skillfully interweaves the personal narratives of the main characters, exposing their vulnerabilities and fears. Through a series of poignant flashbacks and intimate conversations, the audience is made aware of the sacrifices and hardships that both the American and Afghan soldiers have endured during their time in Afghanistan. Hawk, in particular, is haunted by the prospect of failure, not only for the Afghan officers he has come to regard as friends but also for the legacy of the U.S. military's involvement in the country. As the situation in the outpost becomes increasingly precarious, Hawk's team finds itself under siege by Taliban forces. Despite the gravity of their situation, however, the Afghan officers and their American counterparts demonstrate extraordinary bravery and resilience, fighting tenaciously to protect their base. In a heart-wrenching climax, the Afghan forces manage to repel the attack, but not without suffering significant losses. In the aftermath of the battle, Hawk and his team, though exhausted and demoralized, take pride in the heroism displayed by their Afghan allies. Their bond, forged in the heat of battle, remains unbroken, a testament to the enduring nature of relationships formed during times of war. As they prepare to leave, Hawk's team reflects on the significance of their time in Afghanistan and the men they have come to regard as friends. Retrograde explores the complexities of war, humanizing the Afghan Local Security Forces and highlighting the extraordinary efforts of the U.S. military in their final months in Afghanistan. Through the intimate relationship between Hawk's team and the Afghan officers, the film offers a powerful and poignant portrayal of the human cost of conflict and the enduring nature of the bonds formed between soldiers from different cultures and backgrounds.