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The Situation (NR, 2007)

common sense media says

Sobering Iraq war melodrama isn't for kids.

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What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this drama about the war in Iraq probably won't have much appeal for most teens. Just as well, since it features mature themes, including the many mistakes (both intentional and unintentional) made by U.S. forces in Iraq. Violence includes explosions and shootings, plus U.S. troops treating two Iraqi youths badly (they toss them off a bridge). A couple has sex in a hotel room (brief scene, with just a little flesh visible); characters smoke cigarettes and drink. Lots of language, mostly "f--k."

Positive messages: Various factions in Iraq are corrupt, including U.S. intelligence, U.S. military, local administration, and local militias; characters deceive one another and angle for power; even those who mean well make serious mistakes due to ignorance.
Violence: Combat violence, including shooting, explosions, bloody injuries, and a drowning that leads to grieving and cover-up; a major character is killed (body plainly visible); frequent discussion of battle tactics, including training of Iraqis, kidnapping, and "blowing s--t up" held by a militia group; Anna appears bruised and disheveled.
Sex: Brief sex scene in hotel room shows some skin and tossing about in bed; discussion of arranged marriage for reluctant Iraqi daughter; poolside scene shows women in bikinis; attraction between American journalist and Iraqi photographer; a sad kiss.
Language: Frequent uses of "f--k" (20+), to approximate war zone slang, as well as other profanity, like "s--t," "a--hole," and "damn."
Consumerism: Discussion of McDonalds, Toyota, Pringles.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Characters smoke cigarettes repeatedly (especially soldiers); drinking at bars and restaurants.
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More on The Situation

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about the many complexities the film deals with. Is it possible to expose the truth when so many potential truths exist, depending on perspectives, belief systems, and levels of trust? How does Anna's pursuit of the truth reveal her own ignorance? How does Anna's loyalty to Rafeeq complicate her relationship with the American administration in Iraq? Is there a "right thing" for Anna to do? How does this movie compare to dramas about other wars? Is it more realistic? Why?

What's the story?

What's the story?
The first U.S.-made film drama set during the Iraq war, THE SITUATION chronicles the tragic death of an Iraqi teenager at the hands of U.S. soldiers. The incident sets off an "investigation," a cover-up, and complications involving Iraqi mayor Sheikh Tahsin (Saïd Amadis), who has a complex relationship with the Americans. Enter American journalist Anna (Connie Nielsen), who hopes that letting Americans know what's happening in Iraq may have a positive effect. She seeks help on the bridge story from former Republican Guard officer/current insurgency leader Walid (Driss Roukh), her translator Bashar (Omar Berdouni), and cameraman Zaid (Mido Hamada). Anna becomes more immersed in the convoluted story, ignoring the warnings of her "sometimes" boyfriend, U.S. intelligence official Dan (Damian Lewis).

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
Smart and riveting, if sometimes soapy, Philip Haas' movie focuses not on U.S. troops' experiences, but rather on complex interactions between U.S. civilians and Iraqis, as well as among different groups of Iraqis. The film reveals wartime arrogance stemming from ignorance. The occupying forces don't or can't comprehend the damage they do daily, or more expansively. Even when they mean well, the occupiers can't see themselves. And when, at the very last, Anna does see herself through Zaid's camera lens, she can only be heartbroken.

The character of Anna is trapped in a stereotypical female role as The Situation slips into soapiness. She's the object of multiple lusts and affections -- and the damsel when Dan and company need one. She's caught in her own willful haze, and so, like the occupiers she can no longer abide, she doesn't see what she's doing.

Movie themes & details

Movie Details
Studio: Shadow Distribution
Director: Philip Haas
Cast: Connie Nielsen, Damian Lewis, Mido Hamada
Genre: Drama
Run time: 106 minutes
Theatrical release: February 2, 2007
DVD release: July 31, 2007
MPAA Rating: NR
This review was written by Cynthia Fuchs
 
 

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Phocus
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American Military Bashing
Disgustingly bias and slanted fiction fulfulling some film makers idea of his country. Sad for him and sad for those who see this propaganda film.
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