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FTA was made in the 70’s but mysteriously disappeared after just
one week in the cinemas.
Jane Fonda and Donald Sutherland lead a troop of entertainers around American military bases along the Pacific Rim, including Japan, Hawaii, and the Philippines. Using song, skits and laughter they travel through the armed forces and infect the soldiers with truth, honour and the feeling that they should do what’s right, hilariously making a mockery of the military life and the reasons for fighting an unjust war. Juxtaposed with the performances are interviews with the soldiers and navy personnel who give a fabulous insight into life fighting a war they don’t believe in and wish they could end. This film is probably the best chance you’ll ever get to see the connection between American civilians and army personnel on a human level, and the need to remember war is no good for anyone. A humorous and yet deep experience.  The commitment of Jane Fonda and Donald Sutherland to the anti-Vietnam War movement is graphically shown in this documentary about the traveling agitprop theatre troupe they led and performed with in towns near military bases throughout the USA and around the Pacific Rim in the early 1970’s. The lively and entertaining show of songs and skits known as F.T.A. (short for "F**k The Army") were aimed, with considerable success, at convincing soldiers to voice their opposition to the Vietnam War.     The movie opened in theaters in 1972 the same week that Jane Fonda made her controversial trip to Hanoi, North Vietnam. Within a week of its release, American-International Pictures withdrew it from circulation. Director Francine Parker speculated that "calls were made from high up in Washington, possibly from the Nixon White House, and the film just disappeared."  Quotes "The extraordinary air of dissent that rises out of "FTA" provides a rare glimpse into an unhappy and demoralized fighting force stuck in a war which they did not believe in." Film Threat "The show mixes protest songs with broad and bawdy skits, taking potshots at military chauvinism and top-brass privilege. But what it lacks in finesse, it makes up for with a raucous energy." LA Times "It's a document of disarming anti-authoritarian nerve, and the spirit of the thing is infectious and energizing..."IFC.com 1972. 97 minutes. Colour Dolby. 16mm to DVD9, PAL 16:9. A Free Theater Association Production. Directed by Francine Parker. Extras include Jane Fonda Interview. |
