A deep dive into ‘Men of War’: The complex portrait of a modern mercenary
The enigmatic figure of Jordan Goudreau
In the documentary “Men of War,” directors Jen Gatien and Billy Corben explore the multifaceted character of Jordan Goudreau, a former Green Beret and special forces operative. Goudreau’s audacious attempt to overthrow the Venezuelan government in 2020 serves as the film’s central narrative. This failed coup, known as Operation Gideon, is a gripping tale of ambition, hubris, and the stark consequences of misguided heroism.
Operation Gideon: A modern-day fiasco
Goudreau’s plan was nothing short of cinematic—a sea invasion of Venezuela by a coalition of local dissidents and American mercenaries aimed at toppling President Nicolas Maduro. The documentary meticulously traces this botched incursion, featuring interviews with key players: a journalist, an army general, a Miami-based dissident, and Goudreau himself. The result is a fast-paced, enthralling story that mirrors the action films Goudreau idolizes.
The soldier’s psyche: A blend of bravado and vulnerability
Goudreau is portrayed as a complex character—brave yet greedy, power-hungry yet loyal, and deeply affected by PTSD. His self-perception as a righteous soldier is at odds with the grave consequences of his actions. The filmmakers skillfully peel back the layers of his bravado to reveal the emptiness within and the devastating impact on those who believed in his grandiose plans.
The American cowboy: A modern myth
In his interviews, Goudreau is depicted with the trappings of a modern American cowboy. Dressed in neutral colors reminiscent of military fatigues, he sits beside a Harley Davidson motorcycle, a fire crackling in the background. He likens himself to a military movie hero, a blend of Jason Bourne and Rambo, failing to grasp the nuances of these narratives beyond their surface-level heroism.
War jargon and self-delusion
Goudreau’s language is steeped in war jargon. He didn’t attempt a coup d’état; he was “catalyzing a regime change to free 30 million people.” He sees himself as a defender of American democracy, with a side hustle for profit. The film exposes the hollowness of his rhetoric and the severe consequences for his friends and collaborators, who paid with their lives and freedom.
A critique of American masculinity and foreign policy
“Men of War” is not just a character study; it’s a scathing critique of American masculinity and bluster. The documentary also scrutinizes U.S. foreign policy, presenting Goudreau’s story as a believable rogue operation rather than a far-fetched conspiracy. The filmmakers use quick editing techniques to juxtapose Goudreau’s claims with official denials from well-known political figures, creating an eerie atmosphere that leaves the audience questioning the truth.
Shady figures and conflicting testimonies
The documentary features a cast of shady and shadowy figures who serve as both Goudreau’s defenders and whistleblowers. Their conflicting testimonies add layers of complexity to the narrative, making for an entertaining yet thought-provoking watch. The filmmakers manage to balance these diverse perspectives within a fast-paced framework, although the film loses some momentum towards the end.
The human cost of misguided heroism
“Men of War” ultimately examines the human cost of Goudreau’s misguided heroism. It delves into the mental health struggles of soldiers and critiques America’s perpetual war tendencies. The documentary presents a seemingly ridiculous story with serious ramifications, impacting many lives across Venezuela, Colombia, and the United States.
The enduring fantasy of self-perception
The most potent narrative in “Men of War” is the enduring fantasy of self-perception. Goudreau, along with his comrades and adversaries, believed in his arrogant edicts, leading to their downfall. The film unearths these delusions, showing that not all paid a significant price for their misguided beliefs.
“Men of War” is a compelling documentary that offers a sobering look at the complexities of modern mercenaries and the far-reaching consequences of their actions. It challenges viewers to reflect on the nature of heroism, the impact of war, and the intricate web of global politics.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Men of War.