While he was with the US army in Afghanistan Giles
Duley, a British humanitarian photographer stepped on an IED (improvised
explosive device). He was left with horrific injuries, and then as a triple
amputee. Eighteen months after suffering these injuries which left him fighting
for his life, he carried out the promise he had made to himself on the day of
the accident: to return to Afghanistan and complete his work documenting the
effect of the invasion on civilians, and also focusing on people who were
wounded sustaining similar injuries. The film shows Giles’s brave revisit as he
carries out his 1st major assignment since the explosion.
This documentary was quite graphic to start as you watch Giles as he is rescued and taken to hospital. I persevered and I am glad I did. The whole programme was inspiring and really highlighted his bravery in returning to the place he nearly died. As Duley says " whats the point in fear if you don't face up to it".
I particularly like how black and white has been used. I really think that it suits these images and that they may not have the same impact if they had been in colour. They are so powerful and really make the viewer think about the image.
I found the whole programme very moving and inspiring. In the documentary it was mentioned that Giles had received an award. The voice over said " courage, determination, triumph over adversity-we have a lot to learn from Giles Duley". I think that this statement is very true.
Programme shown on 4od.
Images taken from google images.
Info from