Netflix Film Portrays How Psychedelics Heal Traumatized Navy SEALS

The groundbreaking documentary “In Waves and War” sheds light on the use of psychedelics as a last resort treatment for military veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The film follows a group of Navy SEALS who, on the brink of suicide, decide to undergo psychedelic-assisted ibogaine therapy in Mexico to combat their treatment-resistant PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and severe depression. Their journey towards healing becomes the focal point of the story, garnering attention from lawmakers. Recently, the film was screened for the Texas State legislature, who approved $50 million in state funding for ibogaine drug development trials.

Directed by Jon Shenk and Bonni Cohen, known for their work on documentaries like “Athlete A” and “Lost Boys of Sudan,” “In Waves and War” proved to be their most complex and artistically fulfilling project to date. Shenk and Cohen shared insights into the film’s inception, creative evolution, and the challenges faced during its production.

The project began in 2019 when Executive Producer Jamis MacNiven introduced the filmmakers to Marcus and Amber Capone, a retired Navy SEAL and his wife. Marcus had undergone psychedelic therapy for his own PTSD, sparking the filmmakers’ interest in exploring this unconventional treatment within the SEAL community. Building trust within the notoriously private SEAL community was a challenge, but the filmmakers eventually focused on the Capones and a group of SEALs who had also undergone psychedelic therapy.

Selecting the right veterans to feature in the film was crucial. The filmmakers sought SEAL veterans who were initially reluctant to participate, capturing their raw and personal transformation on camera. Overcoming challenges of access, trust, and accurately depicting the psychedelic experiences in the film, the filmmakers used animation to visually represent the ibogaine treatment.

At its core, “In Waves and War” conveys a message of connection and healing. Through intimate human stories, the film aims to show how transformative therapies can offer hope and healing not just to individuals but to families, communities, and society at large. The ripple effect of one person’s transformation can have a profound impact on those around them.

“In Waves and War” is a powerful exploration of the healing potential of psychedelic therapy for veterans struggling with PTSD. The film’s impact has already led to legislative support for further research and development of these groundbreaking treatments.