Paradise Now - 2005
Said & Khaled, childhood friends are recruited for suicide attacks in Tel Aviv. The characters were well played out in this film. Even though these two men have been recruited for terrorist acts, you can't help but feel the emotion that their characters display. Anytime you get a look into Said's eyes, you know what he's feeling.
Said could be a Palastinian Sufjan Stevens when unshaven. I think that's what made his character enjoyable to watch onscreen. The cinematography was very well done. There will be times, when a camera angle will give you the feeling as though an explosive is about to discharge. Or the color schemes give everything a 70's feel.
It really is pleasant on the eyes. With well written dialogue, great actors, and a great director, this is one of the better foreign films I have seen in a while. If you're in the mood for something different, controversial even, then I recommend this film.
4.5 Stars
-Jonny Rider
