The C.O.

In response to the shooting of the Kent State University students by the Ohio National Guard, this film was made to provoke thinking about the morality of war, especially relevant in the middle of the troubled Viet Nam war. It was shown in several Hollywood theaters, such as the Encore on Melrose Avenue. In remembrance of the 4 students shot down at Kent State University by the Ohio National Guard 50 years ago during Viet Nam war protests, I am posting this film that I and my friends made at the time feeling something had to be said. After hearing the news, I paced around the projection booth where I worked, until the story came to me and I wrote it down in one sitting. It was my first 16mm sound movie. It was shown in several Hollywood Theaters as a short subject, and got featured in an interview on Headshop ch 52 with Elliot Mintz, who went on to become an advisor to the Beatles.

Directed by Wayne Schotten, The C.O. leans on a strong ensemble — Dean Shah-Kee — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 1971.