The Mauritanian - Never Forget

 

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    The tragic and unforgivable attack on humanity that was 9/11 is an event that we must always remember. However, we must also be sure to never forget the many tragedies and inhuman actions that followed in the process. In the face of incalculable devastation of any kind, it becomes all too easy to abandon our own humanity under the guise of patriotism and security to ensure it never happens again. It's a classic case of the dangers associated with becoming a monster to fight monsters, a line seemingly so easy to cross that, most of the time, we tend to prefer believing that we're better than that. And the harsh truth is...we're not. That does not mean we're inherently awful, just flawed, and our folly is denying those very flaws that make us human. 

    Today's subject, The Mauritanian, is a film that reminds audiences just how easy it can be to cross that line and how dire the consequences can be. It is a film that can be difficult to watch, but it deserves your attention nonetheless. 

    Based on the book Guantánamo Diary by Mohamedou Olud Slahi, the film chronicles Mohamedou's (Tahar Rahim) experience as a prisoner of Guantánamo Bay accused of being an Al-Queda recruiter. After a few years of incarceration with no charges presented to him, an ACLU attorney named Nancy (Jodie Foster) and her assistant Teri (Shailene Woodley) decided to represent Mohamedou to appeal for his freedom. They are preparing to present their case against the military prosecutor, Stuart Couch (Benedict Cumberbatch), who intends to make this alleged planner of 9/11 face justice in every possible way. However, as both sides prepare their cases, it becomes all too clear what their situation really is, forcing them both the reevaluate what it is they're fighting for. 

    This film is, quite simply, remarkable. While it is difficult to watch at times and covers a rather heavy but important subject matter, the film succeeds in presenting everything in a manner that is easy to digest (for want of a better word) and allows the events to speak for themselves. Which, in this case, is probably the best thing to do. 

    The cast is remarkable all around. Featuring the livewire professionalism expected from Jodie Foster, along with a few surprising performances from a few people you would not expect playing specific parts, such as Zachary Levi (the guy who plays SHAZAM) playing a surprise dark character. Even so, the best performance is from Tahar Rahim as the prisoner. He makes every moment he is on-screen burst with life and emotion that can only come from tremendous commitment and conviction. Apparently, he was nominated for a Golden Globe for his role in this film, and I'm upset that he didn't win. 

    The Mauritanian is a challenging film because it will make you angry at humanity, but it needs to be seen nonetheless. Furthermore, it needs to be played in history classes when discussing 9/11. It may make you upset, but it will also remind you of the importance of vigilance, the price we must continuously pay for our freedom. 

Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm; thank you all for reading.