Eugene International Film Festival

“A Marine Sergeant and a Tree Hugging Hippie Have Made a Movie”
Vietnam: An Inner View

Sgt. Marc C. Waszkiewicz (Ret.) won a camera in a card game on his way to Vietnam in 1967. With it, he photographed thousands of scenes during his three Vietnam combat tours. His captivating photographs present a compassionate “eyes wide open” look at day-to-day life, from personal friendships to “Dear John” letters.

Lea Jones, who did not serve, was a tree-hugging hippie, teacher, songwriter, and a conscientious objector in waiting at that time. He and Sgt. Waszkiewicz met two decades after the Vietnam war had ended. They became a filmmaking odd couple, creating “Vietnam: An Inner View” from Marc’s pictures and his video interviews with former brothers in arms. Jones and Waszkiewicz then collaborated on writing and recording the original award-winning score, a collection of era-specific rock tunes detailing life “in country,” circa 1968.

Both filmmakers will be attending for a Q&A after the screening. Altogether, their work is a heart-tugging and often amusing collection of shared experiences. Marc’s progression from wide-eyed recruit, to jaded three tour veteran, to fully disabled PTSD veteran is woven throughout. Many who have watched “Vietnam: An Inner View” have been deeply moved.

“Vietnam: An Inner View” (74 minutes) will be shown Thursday evening, February 27th, 6:00-8:30 PM, at the Spencer Butte Lodge No. 9 of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows, 1233 Charnelton St. Suggested donation of $10.00. Hearty appetizers will be served as well as popcorn.