What does it mean to tell a story through someone no longer here to tell it? For filmmakers Laura Varela and Andrew James Gonzales, the late Corporal JV Villarreal became both narrator and thread of their new film American Sons. Using Villarreal’s own video diary from his deployment in Afghanistan, the filmmakers weave together his voice with the experiences of his fellow Marines—capturing not only the dangers of combat but also the lasting struggles of returning home.
“In reality, JV was the original filmmaker,” Gonzales shares. “His personality, charisma, and ability to capture his experience were unlike anything we had seen before. That footage set the tone for everything.”
For Varela, the film is also deeply personal: “This film would not exist without the foresight of JV’s sister, April, who brought us this footage knowing it was special. Bringing the film back to San Antonio, JV’s hometown, where I also live and create, feels like coming full circle.”
The filmmakers hope American Sons sparks conversation about the challenges veterans face in transitioning to civilian life—especially as rates of suicide and mental health struggles continue to rise.
“The critical question,” Gonzales reflects, “is what do veterans need to successfully transition to civilian life? There isn’t a shortage of funding or support organizations, yet the numbers keep climbing. Our film sheds light on why.”
Both Varela and Gonzales describe making American Sons as the privilege of their careers. For them, the film is more than art—it is an act of remembrance, responsibility, and community.
“We know that an average of 22 combat veterans die by suicide each day,” Varela notes. “This project is our way of being part of the movement to stop that number.”
Learn more about the film and the filmmakers https://americansonsfilm.com/.
