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An actor's review of this inspiring true story.
by A.J. (movies profile)
Aug 9, 2007
93
of
108 people found this review helpful
"You do not believe you can kill them all."
"Why not? We're already halfway there."
This is the story of a man named Paul Rusesabaniga, a hotel manager who saved the lives of over 1200 people during the Rwandan Genocide of 1994. It is a film about heroism, about survival, about compassion, about continuing on, even well all hope seems lost.
Don Cheadle gives a fantastic performance as Paul. He never takes Paul to the place of epic hero, but portrays him realistically as only a man, trying to do the right thing, at whatever the cost, and thus becoming heroic. This is some of Cheadle's best work, and a likely shot for a Best Actor Oscar nomination.
The supporting cast all give great performances also, including Joaquin Phoenix as a news cameraman, and Nick Nolte as a UN officer. But the big show comes from Sophie Okonedo, the wife of Paul. A wonderfully personal performance, and worthy of all praise it receives.
This movie triumphs not because of a huge amount of special effects, or witty dialogue, but as a story of the human spirit, and the ambition to face danger and live through it. Terry George has directed a moving film about a period in history that should never be forgotten. Great job!
My rating: B+
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