'Here. Is. Better.'

Making its return to the big screen is the GI Film Festival San Diego, a multi-day military-themed event dedicated to presenting films and events for, by and about military and veterans.

West Coast Premiere:
A soldier’s story is always personal, but never more than in "Here. Is. Better.," a documentary film with unprecedented access inside trauma therapy sessions delivering hope to veterans battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Individuals featured in the film include former Presidential hopeful Jason Kander, who shocked many when he left the Kansas City mayoral race in 2018 to seek treatment; a Vietnam War veteran still haunted by events that occurred over 50 years ago; and the voices of so often overlooked female veterans, all seeking the keys to unlock their places of hurt and pain.

Directed by Emmy®-winning filmmaker Jack Youngelson and produced by Emmy winner Sian Edwards-Beal and David Beal. Score composed by David Baron and Jeremiah Fraites of the GRAMMY-nominated band The Lumineers. Original songs by Josin and Kara DioGuardi.

This film contains course language, scenes from combat, and mature themes of suicide, sexual assault, and violence. Viewer discretion advised.

Get tickets to "Here. Is. Better." screening on May 19, 2022 at 7:15 p.m.

More about GI Film Fest:

This year’s film festival is scheduled for May 17-21, 2022 with all screenings happening in-person at the Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) in Balboa Park. The 2022 festival features 27 films for, by, and about military and veterans. Virtual options are available.

View the lineup of films and events
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A project of KPBS, the GI Film Festival San Diego is a multi-day showcase of films for, by, and about military and veteran experiences. Films featured in the festival reveal the struggles, triumphs, and experiences of service members and veterans. The festival also provides veterans and service members with an opportunity to further their creative skills.

Documentaries, shorts, narratives, and feature-length films are presented. Post-screening discussions with filmmakers, actors and documentary subjects are also part of the festival. This event takes place annually in May and is open to veterans, service members, military families, and civilians. All are welcome to catch a film, be inspired, and build community.

Visit GI Film Festival San Diego on Facebook + follow @GIFilmFestSD on Twitter