In 2010, Sgt. First Class Brian Eisch deploys to Afghanistan, leaving his two sons, Isaac and Joey, in the care of their uncle. During his six-month absence, the boys long for their father's return. After a brief reunion, Brian is shot in the leg while rescuing a comrade. His recovery at Walter Reed Medical Center leads to an amputation. The film follows Brian's struggles with fatherhood and identity as he adapts to life with a prosthetic leg, while his sons navigate their own paths amid the challenges of military life.

What Critics Say

Masculinity and patriotism lead a family into war in a sensitively made, yet at times meandering, film made over a decade.

Benjamin LeeRead full article

July 14, 2020

Deep Dive

Why Watch

Meet Brian Eisch, a soldier facing life after war.
See the impact of deployment on Brian's two sons.
Follow Brian's journey from injury to recovery.

Did You Know

Brian Eisch was deployed to Afghanistan for 6 months in 2010.
Brian's leg was amputated three years after he was shot in the leg.
The film has an approval rating of 91% based on 34 reviews.
Brian's son Joey was 7 years old when his father was deployed.

Perfect For

Military family storiesVeteran experiencesFather-son relationships

Read full Deep Dive →

Frequently Asked Questions

Who directed the documentary Father Soldier Son?

Father Soldier Son was directed and produced by Catrin Einhorn and Leslye Davis.

What is the main focus of Father Soldier Son?

The documentary follows the family of Brian Eisch, a Sgt. First Class in the United States Army, and the effects of his deployment to the War in Afghanistan on him and his young sons.

When was Father Soldier Son released on Netflix?

Father Soldier Son was released on July 17, 2020.

Awards & Festivals

View all →

Sundance Film Festival

2021 • Award

Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Festival

2020 • Official selection

Sheffield Doc Fest

2020 • Official selection

Tribeca Film Festival

2020 • Official selection

Awards & Festivals

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