In honor of Veterans Day, Neumann University hosted a special screening of the documentary Hell or High Seas on Friday, November 8, in the Meagher Theatre. The event drew a diverse audience who left with a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by veterans, particularly those struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The film follows U.S. Navy veteran Taylor Grieger and writer Stephen O’Shea on their perilous journey to sail around Cape Horn.
This venture, undertaken to raise awareness about veteran suicide and PTSD, resonated deeply with the audience. Grieger’s story of resilience and hope provided not only a gripping adventure but also a poignant commentary on the realities of transitioning from military to civilian life.
One audience member shared how the film changed their perspective on PTSD.
“I didn’t really know too much about PTSD before watching the film, and there’s still so much I don’t know,” they admitted. “The one thing they shared was that it’s not so much a disorder, but rather a natural response of the body.”
For others, the documentary’s spiritual undertones stood out.
“I didn’t see it as a spiritual journey until the end, and then it really hit me that way,” another attendee reflected. “Taylor was undertaking a journey into the same level of danger he chose [as a career]. He kept overcoming… until he got to Cape Horn.”
The emotional impact of the film was undeniable, as some audience members drew parallels to their own lives.
One attendee visibly moved, said, “It was eye-opening to see what PTSD really is and relate it to people in my life who have it. When somebody doesn’t embrace the effects of what they’ve gone through to try to get healing, it’s like they’re helpless. This is exactly the movie I wanted to see tonight.”
The post-screening discussion, led by Neumann faculty, delved into the themes of adventure therapy and the importance of addressing mental health challenges among veterans.
The dialogue reinforced the film’s message that life, despite its hardships, is worth fighting for—a sentiment echoed in Grieger’s powerful words in the film: “Life is worth the fight.”
Hell or High Seas is part of the Neumann Inspires Film Festival’s bonus screenings, leading up to the main event in April 2025. It served as a timely reminder of the sacrifices veterans make and the struggles many face long after their service.
