DOCNZ focus 2009, Ask Not

From the United States, comes a compelling story that questions that
legality, logic and morality behind the US military's policy regrading
having gay servicemen and servicewomen.

An important and timely documentary by director Johnny Simons, it is
compelling story that explores the personal stories of Americans willing
to risks their lives for a country which criminalises the act of coming
out. Current and veteran gay soldiers reveal how “don’t ask don’t tell”
affects them during their tours of duty, as they struggle to maintain a
double life, uncertain of whom they can trust. The film also explores
how gay veterans and youth organizers are turning to forms of personal
activism to overturn the policy.

From a national speaking tour of conservative universities to protests
at military recruitment offices, these public events question how the
United States military can claim to represent democracy and freedom
while denying one segment of the population the right to serve.
Interspersed with these principal storylines, the film reveals rare
archival footage and key historical interviews with policy experts to
explain the history and implementation of DADT. “Don’t ask don’t tell”
remains one of the most blatant forms of government-imposed
discrimination still existing as law, yet no comprehensive, widely
distributed documentary has been produced on the topic. ASK NOT provokes
thoughtful dialogue about the merits of banning those who are honest
about their identities from serving their country.

A provocative portrait of bravery amidst exclusion, ASK NOT, is a film
not to be missed.

Dir. Johnny Simons/ USA/ 2008/ 73 mins