For those of you who have been living in a hole (aka America) for most of your life, this movie documents the struggle in Africa regarding "Blood Diamonds." The idea: During the civil war in Sierra Leone hundreds upon hundreds are killed and/or captured into slavery. The slaves, the selected ones who aren't gunned down or brutally murdered, search for diamonds which are then illegally exported. Why are they exported? So J.Lo and girls all around the Western World can wear beautiful rocks on their fingers and live the dream. But the price of the dream is blood shed all across Africa. Hence the title: Blood Diamond.
The story was great. I really like the concept the director/writers were portraying. The director used some great imagery in the film and the cinematography was lush. But above the Hollywood hoopla it is so important to be aware of what is/has happened around the world. Hollywood has a duty to portray these issues so I was really pleased that this movie was made. It is a very "come on world let's get some social awareness" movie. Overall I really liked it. Shocking scenes of violence and brainwashing were gritty and real. I could totally use this movie to teach people about child development. And oh the things they show! YUCK! It really reenforced how much I hate rap music and rap stars who glorify killing, violence, hate, and bling. Not all of them do. But I can pin point a few who feed into the troubles that plague Africa.
This movie was held together by a great concept, wonderful music and Leo. Gotta love Leo. But with this said I have to say the movie was a little difficult to adjust to. Ok... You may be wondering why? Why Michael? Why was it so hard to adjust to? Well my friends let me tell you:
Number One- I have to say the language and accents were a bit off. The actors all did a wonderful job, but it was somewhat hard to tell what they were going for. Leo with that accent reminded me a lot of Nicky Kidman in The Interpreter. Good, just it seemed a little forced at times.
Number Two- My other criticism of the movie is the forced emotion between a few characters. All of the characters had a good level of depth as individuals, yet this wasn't always true when looking at their relationships with each other. The father to son relationship fell into the murky waters of "Yeah, I agree I'd feel that way too. But are these actors making me feel it?"
In conclusion I was delighted with the topic, Leo gave a stellar performance (as usual--I hope he finally gets his Oscar), but there were some "rough around the edges" moments that made it drop a few notches in my grade book.
Peanut Butter on Rice Cakes with a Diet Coke
mmm but I can smell the Spaghetti Dinner cooking...
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