Solid movie, with some excellent performances

Rating: 10/10 (8 January 2007)

Africa is a war torn country. Over the past century it has been plagued by minor and major conflicts, some which are still apparent today. Creating a film that is set and based upon such events is both risky and sensitive, but Edward Zwick once again fronts old critics with an engaging, dramatic, enlightening and overall a very entertaining experience. The story basically revolves around Danny Archer (Learnado Di Caprio) a diamond smuggler who learns of a diamond which has been buried by an African fisherman Solomon Vandy. Solomon agrees to show him the where abouts of the 100 carrot diamond in return for some help in finding his family. However in a country which is seriously ravaged by war and poverty this is no easy task. It was good to see that Blood Diamond is not scared to portray the realism of living in Africa in that time. While violence and gore is strong in this film it is certainly not over the top, which for many people will be a welcome change.
The performances in this film was the main highlight for me though. While Di Caprio outdoes himself and excels as the aggressive, and also at times sensitive smuggler. Djimon Hounson is the main star. His performance was uplifting, strong and very convincing.
There is very little negative feedback I can say about Blood Diamond. Perhaps there are some unconvincing moments involving Solomon Vandy and maybe at times the term " Hollywood " could be used but overall this is a very good film. Good writing, excellent performances, lots of action, an enthralling storyline, and Learnado Di Caprio with a awesome accent makes this a certain Oscar nominee.