surprisingly well done!

Rating: 9/10 (26 December 2005)

I am not a Spielberg fan. With the sole exception of Schindler's list, I have found his films to be boring, predictable, saccharine and manupaltive. Here he has done something wonderful - he has brought the Middle East crisis forward on film as even handedly as possible - given the circumstances. The film manages to bring the suffering of both the Jews and Muslims as part of real people - that aren't that much different if you can look at it from each of their's perspectives.
I am shocked that people find this an 'ordinary film.' This is a brave film that I was even surprised could be made and distributed. And the fact that it was made by a Jew and could see the Palestinian side is even more astounding.
I really hope people see this film and it makes everyone think a little more about what is happening other than just 'some crazy terrorists killing people.' There is a reason behind every violent act - and while, in my opinion, that violence is never justified, the motives for the violence are sometimes understandable. I believe it is through this understanding that peace may one day be achieved.
It is very hard to talk about the film without getting emotionally involved in it's subject matter. I think anyone who really cares about what is going on in the Holy Land will be moved by this film. The acting was great and my only real complaint is the graphic nudity and sexual situations that I just felt could have been avoided and the same message conveyed.
This is not just a great film - but an important one. And I am fortunate that someone with enough clout like Spielberg could get this distributed in theaters.