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The Mauritanian (2021)

2021 • 2h 9m • Drama, Thriller • R
On October 3, 2026
#7291
7291st by Pulse movie online
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CinemaSerf on The Mauritanian

7/10 · Mar 27, 2022

It’s remarkable how far Tahar Rahim and Kevin MacDonald have progressed since their initial project together, "the Eagle" (2011). This film focuses on Mohammed Ould Slahi, portrayed by Rahim, who is held without charges by the United States government at Guantánamo Bay. His situation draws the attention of lawyer Nancy Hollander (Jodie Foster), and alongside her colleague Teri Duncan (Shailene Woodley), she vigorously works to gain his freedom. Benedict Cumberbatch plays their adversary, Col. Crouch, a strong and principled figure, and as events unfold, both sides come to understand the full scope of the abuses taking place. Rahim’s performance is exceptional; he vividly illustrates the limits of human resilience – physically and mentally – while Hollander persistently strives for his release. Recently, there's been an increase in films that directly criticize US administrations for selectively applying legal principles, irrespective of political affiliation, and this documentary-style film utilizes dialogue effectively (and not excessively), along with flashbacks and footage intended to resemble reality, to slowly reveal the background of this man – who, as far as we know, has done nothing wrong. The film doesn't feature much action in a conventional sense, and those familiar with his bestselling "Guantánamo Diaries" will already be aware of how this lengthy legal battle ends, but it offers a powerful depiction of a nation’s efforts to strip away someone’s humanity, and the unquestioning compliance of some of its employees in carrying out these actions. It's a film that stays with you, leaving an unpleasant feeling.

Source on TMDB