The Messenger (2009)

In the brutal aftermath of an Iraq deployment, US Army Staff Sergeant Will Montgomery bears the scars of war, both physical and emotional. Following an explosive encounter, he returns to the US, grappling with the lingering impact of grave injuries to his eye and leg. Amidst his personal turbulence, he reignites a passionate connection with his former lover, Kelly, a woman now promised to another man in Will's acquaintance. As the final months of his enlistment loom, the army thrusts him into a new role within the Casualty Notification Team. Unversed in counselling, psychology, or the delicate art of grief management, Will questions his capability to shoulder this heavy responsibility. He finds an unexpected mentor in the seasoned Captain Tony Stone, a man deeply entrenched in this solemn duty, who illuminates the precise protocol and unseen hazards of this challenging task. As Will navigates the tumultuous seas of grief from the bereaved next of kin, he is blindsided by the reaction of Olivia Pitterson, a woman mourning her husband lost in the Iraq conflict. Their initial encounter sets Will on a path of intrigue and desire to know Olivia more intimately, a pursuit that may not serve either of them well. Guiding Will through this complex emotional landscape is Tony, a recovering alcoholic, who strives to steer Will with the wisdom drawn from his own battles. As they delve deeper into their roles, they find themselves wrestling with their own demons, questioning their loyalties, and learning the true cost of war.

The Messenger is a drama movie featuring Ben Foster and directed by Oren Moverman.

The Messenger is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy, Peacock, Peacock Premium, Pluto TV, Popcornflix, Redbox, Tubi TV and Xumo Play and it's also available on Fandor Amazon Channel, Hoopla, OVID, Topic and fuboTV.

It is also possible to buy The Messenger on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Redbox, Vudu and YouTube.