It is interesting to see how some people give this film a rating of 1 or less than 5 points, much of them, I am sure, without even seeing it. I guess it has to do with the fact that is a movie by Uwe Boll, and yet they can't overcome this stage of hating everything the guy does, even if it is a serious matter like this. Even if someone does not like the movie (which is perfectly valid) rating should not be less than 5. Just because daring to show something so painful, this movie has a value in itself. But is not my case. I really loved this movie and should I say: If you are human, watch it. It is very difficult to watch, that is true, is also disturbing and shocking. But that is precisely what this film aims. We, as the six journalists in this story, become witnesses to the slaughter. This is not a thriller or an action movie. Do not pretend to find suspense in this film. It is a Docudrama. A very effective one. Many talk about what is happening in Darfur, but no one shows us what actually happens in a way that really affect us and make us move.
The main cast is composed of well-known actors, but the others are all survivors, victims of genocide, who wanted to be part of this project. Then, we can see how they interact with each other. We can see Kristanna Loken speaking in Arabic or David O'Hara listening to a victim who speaks English with difficulty. Another interesting aspect of the film is that there is no script, just 30 pages of guidance. The actors had to improvise their lines. This film does not focus on the origins of the conflict in which each side can give their own version. Does not delve into political issues or say who is right. Only presents the conflict and shows its consequences: people dead. Women raped and murdered children. I heard that there is also a debate about what is the actual number of victims and each group provide its own numbers. But this film does't mess with that either. Simply tells us that there is a conflict, that has killed innocent people as a result. I have read reviews of some of the real victims who participated in the film, pleased to be able to tell their story and read comments from people who watched the film and confirmed that what it shows is exactly what they lived. It is not a matter of numbers.
6 journalists will document the situation in Darfur and suddenly, they become witnesses to the attack by a group of Janjaweed to the village where they did their interviews. Then, must decide whether to leave or stay and try to help. It's OK to get angry, feel indignation, close your eyes with some scenes. That's what happened to me. I even began to mourn before the real drama begins, only to see the faces and eyes of these people. This is a film very well done. It highlights David O'Hara, Kristanna Loken and Sammy Sheik and this does't mean that others do not fulfill their function. They do it perfectly. Hopefully more people can see this and feel affected. Personally, I congratulate the people who dared to tell this story, despite what these things generate and commend the victims who have the courage to share their own experiences hoping that, some time, things change.
Finally, if it will still appear the inquisitors of Uwe Boll to rate this movie with a 1, let me tell you something: Open the doors of your houses, take a deep breath, go out to see what happens in the world beyond video games, and grow up. It is time ...
