In Waves and War OTT Release: The highly anticipated documentary In Waves and War is set to premiere on Netflix on November 3, 2025.
Directed by Jon Shenk and Bonni Cohen, the film delves into the lives of three Navy SEALs who return from Iraq and Afghanistan grappling with severe psychological trauma.
Their journey toward healing leads them to explore groundbreaking psychedelic therapies, offering a fresh perspective on mental health treatment for veterans.
Plot
In Waves and War explores the intense and often overlooked psychological battles faced by veterans returning from combat. The documentary focuses on three Navy SEALs who leave their tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan carrying severe, treatment-resistant mental trauma. Despite having tried conventional therapies, these soldiers continue to experience unrelenting psychological pain, highlighting the pressing need for innovative approaches to mental health care.
The film follows their journey as they step onto a different kind of battlefield—a pioneering psychedelic therapy program designed to provide relief where traditional methods have failed. This cutting-edge treatment not only offers hope for the individuals themselves but also shines a light on a broader community of veterans struggling with similar conditions.
Through intimate storytelling, the documentary captures the emotional highs and lows of the healing process, showing both the promise and challenges of alternative therapies. It offers viewers a rare glimpse into the resilience, courage, and vulnerability of those who have served on the frontlines and now fight battles within.
By weaving personal narratives with the scientific exploration of psychedelic therapy, In Waves and War emphasizes the urgent need for new solutions in mental health care for veterans, making it a compelling and emotionally charged viewing experience.
The documentary has garnered attention for its intimate storytelling and innovative use of animation, capturing the emotional and physical toll of war on these elite soldiers. It also highlights the challenges faced by veterans in accessing effective mental health care and the potential of alternative therapies.
