The President Versus David Hicks (2004) User Reviews

The other side

[jaberryca · 7/10 · 25 May 2005]

I read the other comments that were very negative toward the film. My view is the other side...and I am a flag raising, voter, supporter of our Armed Forces and shed a tear every night another American is listed as KILLED! This film should be viewed from the perspective of a parent that loves their child and his search for the truth...not what one side says is the truth..that is what true American stands for.

This film like the invasion of Iraq points out the dictatorial manner that President Bush is leading our country. Imprisonment without due process! Even the terrorist of 911 got a trial. To restrain a parent from seeing their child is cruel and unusual punishment. What is our government afraid of? Film like this must be made and seen if we are to remain a free democratic nation.

Solid documentary about an important issue, although eclipsed in quality by films such as Outfoxed! and Capturing the Friedmans.

[colettesplace · 6/10 · 21 December 2004]

2004 was an exciting time for documentary in Australia and internationally, with films like Fahrenheit 9/11 influencing parliament and public perception, and SuperSize Me socking it to the multinationals. Along with Madmoiselle and The Doctor, The President Versus David Hicks was Australia's contribution to social justice documentary film-making last year.

The President Versus David Hicks is a personal exploration of Australian Taliban fighter David Hicks, using letters he wrote home and interviewing his confused friends and family. Although there are a few unfortunate Bush soundbites, POTUS' gaffes have been better documented elsewhere. The film is at its most interesting when David's father, Terry, journeys to Afghanistan to retrace his son's footsteps. In Australia, Terry was controversially chosen to lead the 2004 (Great War) Remembrance Day Parade, but whether Hicks is guilty or not, the film shows that his father's unswerving support is heroic.

Where The President Versus David Hicksfalls short is in explaining just how an Australian could convert to the kind of extreme Islam practiced by the Taliban. However filmmakers Curtis Levy and Bentley Dean remind us that David and 600 other Taliban fighters have been imprisoned in horrific conditions for two years now, without being charged. And there's evidence to suggest that Hicks was only involved in Afghanistan's civil war, and not in terrorist activity. ***/***** stars.