Bryan Fogel's "The Dissident" examines the disturbing killing of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, along with the subsequent attempt by the Saudi government to conceal it. The film utilizes CCTV footage, social media records, conversations with Khashoggi’s family and friends, and previously unseen video evidence obtained from Turkish police to offer a view into the circumstances surrounding the crime. Because director Fogel incorporates so much information, the documentary occasionally feels scattered, as if it's attempting to cover too much ground at once. Khashoggi openly criticized his native Saudi Arabia, and the government disapproved of what they considered his challenging suggestions for change. Despite facing cyberattacks, threats, and risks for speaking out, he consistently refused to be silent, ultimately giving up everything in pursuit of freedom of expression. The extent to which those holding power within the Saudi government were willing to go to suppress dissent is unsettling, including the creation of a social media team designed to undermine anyone who voiced opposition. With an estimated 80% of Saudis using Twitter, social media carries significant weight for people living in the Kingdom. The film criticizes this restriction on free speech and suggests that Khashoggi’s death was a direct consequence of it. The documentary's narrative structure feels disjointed and wanders considerably. There is a storyline focusing on Jamal’s fiancée, Hatice Cengiz, and her efforts to uncover what truly occurred, as she strives for justice. Another segment presents interviews with Omar Abdulaziz, Khashoggi’s close confidant, detailing their plans for several social media initiatives. The most captivating aspects of the film, perhaps morbidly speaking, involve the true crime elements. Conversations with Turkish officials are deeply concerning, and it's frustrating that those likely responsible for ordering the murder have not been held accountable. I would have preferred “The Dissident” to be more streamlined; I believe a smaller focus might have resulted in a stronger film. Nevertheless, this expansive story about technology’s influence, oppression, love, and violence is compelling and should provoke anger and inspire action.

Source on TMDB