The Way We Get By

For half a decade, Bill, Joan and Jerry—three senior citizens struggling with ailments and the ennui of old age—have greeted American soldiers coming home from the Middle East. Lining the Bangor, Maine, airport terminals to offer cell phones, warm wishes and handshakes, this trio has found a renewed sense of purpose in their routine. Though Aron Gaudet’s documentary never quite captures the relieved atmosphere of these homecomings, it does acknowledge the dark side of a cheery platitude: those on both sides of the divide are in need of healing.