Lieutenant Michael Murphy was a Navy SEAL who gave his life for his country in 2005. In 2007, he was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery and courage when in the line of fire. Murph: The Protector is a unique character profile detailing the man that Michael Murphy was as well as the exemplary display of honor and commitment that he lived every day.
Using countless interviews with family and friends, director Scott Mactavish crafts a unique portrayal of an American hero. But rather than focusing solely on his time in combat and the legacy that he leaves behind, Murph: The Protector offers up a life story, allowing viewers to understand his upbringing and realize that Murphy's impact started much sooner than the Navy.
The majority of the film details Murphy's initial interest in the Navy and one of the most powerful moments comes when a former SEAL speaks of his first encounter with the future fallen hero. In the matter of a couple of sentences, you begin to create an image in your mind as small details come into focus and you are able to fully understand exactly who Michael was. Complementing words from his family and friends only add to the image, ultimately providing us with a man who left us too early.
Well edited and put together, Murph: The Protector is a unique film that bears a mainstream message. Many will wonder why Murphy's story warrants a film when countless men die defending their country ever day. The truth is that Michael's journey is a mere representation of countless soldiers who face danger every day defending those back home. This film is an eye into their lives, their stories. It takes a special kind of person to willingly look into the face of danger; Michael Murphy was one of them.
