Tough to watch, gripping and impeccable

Rating: 8/10 (11 July 2008)

I've liked Waterston since I first saw him, probably on Law & Order. There's only one possible exception in what I know of, as far as him being talented. This is the performance of his that I am most impressed by. Malkovich does great as always, and does not steal the show(which we know he could), does not take the attention away from the subject, where it is intended. Ngor has to be mentioned... he's fantastic. The Oscar was completely deserved. The plot is well-told and never stands still. The pacing is spot-on. The direction is effective and masterful. The shocks are all proper, not a single fake or cheap one among them. This is powerful, engaging and disturbing. The violence and blood is never gratuitous. I doubt anyone could sit through this and not be affected. It does not make for a pleasant viewing, but it is important and should be respected, not ignored. While there is some humor in this, it is seldom if ever a light experience. The script is well-written throughout. It is very difficult to find flaws in this, although the one particular music choice can be debated. I recommend this to fans of dramas, historical films and war movies. 8/10