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Review

It’s 2008 and the war in Iraq is in full swing. Congress is increasing the chatter to repeal "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" on its 15th anniversary. To a decorated Marine Alex Everett (Dreya Weber, The Gymnast), the repeal did not come soon enough.

With a fierce gleam in her eye and chip on her shoulder, this attractive, built blonde soldier unexpectedly arrives back into the sleepy desert town where she grew up. During a time when no one is granted leave from active duty, Alex is honorably discharged for conduct unbecoming of an officer—a.k.a accused of being a lesbian. But instead of quietly holding up to figure out her next move, she is asked by the local authorities to help get sharp-tongued, cute Saffron (Paris Pickard) begrudgingly ready for boot camp.

As they train in the sweltering summer, it’s a battle of wills to see who can push whose buttons the furthest. A bond is developing, but Alex’s past keeps creeping back, forcing her to deal with the Sapphic rumors and dogmatic prejudice that could shatter everything for both women.

Once again skillful director Ned Farr (The Gymnast) and gifted actor/producer Weber team up to create a well-made character study that illustrates how women rise above stringent situations surrounding controversial topics. Out newcomer Pickard shines playing opposite Weber showing both volatility and confidence. Poignant and powerful, A Marine Story is an intricate tale that valiantly stands up to the negative stereotypes and closeted bigotry imposed upon lesbians and gays who courageously serve in our military.

 -- Kelly Burkhardt