photo courtesy of Sony pictures classic "The Fog of War" took home the Best Documentary Oscar for its stunning portrayal of the impact one man ÷ Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara ÷ had on life and death around the world.

Sony Pictures Classics

Rated: PG-13

105 min.

Now playing at Century El Con

For those of us who are too scared (or scarred) to go see "The Passion of The Christ," there is a brilliant alternative. If profound thinking, sensitivity and human brutality are what you seek, but like myself, don't want to be a victim of "Passion" hype, "Fog of War" will provide for you ÷ guilt not included.

The Academy Award-winning documentary "Fog of War" is a glimpse into the life and mind of former Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, one of the most influential figures of the 20th century. Throughout his life, he has been critical to many important decisions, including the firebombing of Japan in World War II, the Cuban Missile Crisis and supporting South Vietnam in the Vietnam War.

At the age of 84, McNamara is far enough removed from his prime to be able to confront the ghosts of his past and somehow try to make peace with them. He reflects on how his decisions have affected his life, his family and global conflict. At one point, he states that a document he wrote was indirectly responsible for the "success" of the firebombing in Japan, which killed more than 100,000 civilians in one night. Point of perspective: A little more than 3,000 people died in the Sept. 11 attacks. The dark clouds that surround this man's life are substantial.

The reflection and wisdom that he imparts throughout the film are both moving and thought-provoking. He asks all the important questions: How much evil can we do in the name of good? Why do the winners never commit war crimes? How many civilians can justifiably be killed to end a war quickly? The questions are never answered, but McNamara tries to make sense of his experiences, through which he produced 11 lessons about war and conflict. Each of his anecdotes in the film alludes to or exemplifies one of those lessons. Sharing this wisdom, it seems, helps him to repent his past.

What sets this documentary apart from most others is its strong emotional underpinnings, which not only grab you from the start but also give the movie a strong sense of humanity and sensitivity. That is, in part, because of its brilliant, simple cinematography. McNamara speaks directly into the camera, and the film is interspersed with footage of the historical events he discusses.

World War II and the Vietnam War are common subjects for documentaries, but very few involve real interviews with key players. This movie gives a whole new perspective on war and what can be done to avoid it. It will make you think, no question about it. And though it does feel long in parts, it is definitely worth it.

We live in serious times of war and violence, and in order to find our way back to peace, we must learn from those before us.

McNamara's reflections can be a guide for the rest of us.