Brutal and Brilliant!

Rating: 9/10 (14 January 2007)

This film is best described with two seemingly unrelated adjectives - beautiful and gut-wrenching.Both these adjectives can in fact be used to depict the two faces of human nature as shown in this outstanding film.A harrowing account of the true-life genocide that occurred in Rwanda in 1994, 'Hotel Rwanda' is a remarkable effort in every sense.Don Cheadle as Paul Rusesabagina,the manager of a Belgian-owned hotel in Kigali,Rwanda,gives an exceptional,career-defining performance.The dignity he brings to the part,and the determination and resourcefulness of his character make for truly compelling viewing and I often found myself choked with emotion as I watched one disturbing sequence after another unfold.Supporting performances by all are excellent, with a special mention for the amazing Sophie Okonedo.Terry George's direction has the required lucidity and delivers solid solar-plexus punches as the story moves along at a (surprisingly) brisk pace.At the end of it all,we are left with a deep sense of regret at our insensitivity towards anything that doesn't directly affect us.Cinema this moving doesn't come along everyday and I recommend it highly for all discerning viewers out there.