Near-Perfect

Rating: 10/10 (30 January 2016)

Cary Joji Fukunaga's adaptation of Uzodinma Iweala's novel is a potent study of one child's survival as his country, culture and family are victimized by war. One of the first films actually co-financed and released by Netflix, it has not received the credit it is due.
At times this film is almost impossible to watch, but it presents a story that with which we must become familiar. The fact that these horrors continue into the 21st Century without any real intervention to stop or provide essential assistance is even more impossible to ignore.
Fukunaga is a deeply talented filmmaker who has never been allowed to steer a near-perfect production until now. Idris Elba's work as one of the film's producers and as a pivotal character in the story is amazing. It speaks volumes regarding the ignorance of The Academy Award that these two artists and this film have essentially been ignored. Abraham Attah may only be a child, but his performance serves as the heart and soul of the film.
Not to be missed or undervalued. "Beasts of No Nation" is very near perfectly made.
As a note of advice: This film is brutally realistic and contains scenes of horrific violence. Parents should be aware.