Blood Diamond

Director: Edvard Zwick

Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Djimon Hounsou, Jennifer Connelly

Those who have not heard about the upheaval Blood Diamond caused must have been living underground for the past few months. With the likes of Beyonce allegedly being paid to wear diamonds to award ceremonies, it is clear to see that this film has had a great effect on the diamond industry. And some would say rightly so. Blood Diamond is set during the period of civil war in Sierra Leone and follows the story of fisherman Solomon (Hounsou), who is forced to pan diamonds. He finds a large coveted pink diamond and thus attracts the attention of diamond smuggler Danny Archer (DiCaprio), among others.

DiCaprio’s fantastic performance leaves no doubt in viewers’ minds that he is one of the best actors in Hollywood today. His convincing South African accent and emotive performance adds to the authenticity of the movie. Hounsou’s performance is also outstanding, and fully deserving of the several supporting actor awards he has acquired for this role. The rest of the cast support the leads beautifully and characters are well developed throughout the film, leaving the viewers emotionally involved with the story.

Do not be deceived by the Hollywood sheen – this film is a powerful and brutal look into life during Sierra Leone’s civil war. Viewers are left horrified after witnessing whole villages being destroyed and their inhabitants’ arms being chopped off to ensure low turn out at elections. One of the most disturbing scenes of the film is when the rebels recruit, train and brainwash the children that they have taken from destroyed villages. Blood Diamond is more than just a well made film; it is a powerful depiction of the horrors of civil war. Yet Zwick achieves a perfect balance between social commentary and action which means no one is left behind wishing for a less one sided film.

Blood Diamond’s sincere message, fast paced action scenes and well developed characters make this one of the best films to come out of Hollywood in recent years. This film goes highly recommended to those in search of an action packed film but also those searching for a more meaningful cinema experience. In the end it leaves you with hope that there is a way one can make a difference and that is one of its great successes.

Julia Huntenburg