Cheadle is terrific!

Rating: 9/10 (19 May 2005)

"Hotel Rwanda" tells the true story of the genocide that occurred in the mid 90s between the Tutsis and the Hatu's. Don Cheadle plays Paul Rusesabagina, a hotel manager who housed thousands of Tutsis and Hatus in his hotel to keep them from slaughter. His story is fascinating and Cheadle is amazing.
What could have been a very depressing film, what we get instead is the story told from a different point of view. Paul was considered a traitor by his people because of his efforts. Paul risked his family, his life, and his freedom to help thousands of people because he believed it was the right thing to do. The militia didn't see it that way, as Paul was constantly on the defense and risking his life. Throughout the whole ordeal, he constantly used bribery, favors, and lies to get whatever he needed.
Cheadle, who has been very good before steals the whole movie. His acting covers all kinds of range. You see his pain as he tries to balance all these things and he knows that none of it may do any good. he deserved his Oscarnomination and in my book he should have won.
I was worried that this movie might be a depressing film like say, "Killing Fields". It really isn't at all and if anything it's inspired and tells a very interesting story. There is some rough parts, but if you can make it to the end, you'll be satisfied and fulfilled. (****)