Comment, With Donald Trump’s second inauguration underway, remembering some of his past comments and actions has brought this understated and highly relevant film to the front of my mind. Some spoilers to follow.
Like all art forms, films are influenced by our past and present. But sometimes, a movie becomes so aware of the world around it that it begins to predict the future. 2011 film contagion reflective elements of Covid-19 pandemic With an alarming level of accuracy, and some claim the 2006 comedy foolishness Not too far from our current political climate. However, I would argue that the film with the greatest level of foresight is the 1998 thriller siegeAnd here’s why.
plot
The year is 1998, and New York City has yet to see a large-scale coordinated terrorist attack. When innocent people begin dying in organized and targeted bombings, an FBI counterterrorism team led by Agent Anthony Hubbard (Denzel Washington) and a mysterious CIA agent (Annette Bening) must race to track down the terrorist cells responsible. But when fear grips the country and the US military is deployed, Hubbard finds himself fighting a war on two fronts.
predictions
When? siege It received mixed reviews when it was first released and criticized As “clumsy” by Roger Ebert. Only four years later, it would attain a frightening level of relevance as terms like “terrorist cell” and “IED” became common in America after 9/11. Its depiction of Middle Eastern men in cages evokes images of Japanese American internment camps of the 1940s. This will be the reality once again in 2016 with the harsh border policies put in place during Donald Trump’s first term as President.
The scariest prediction is that siege Creates what has not yet happened. In President Donald Trump, the United States has a commander in chief who has openly suggested free American troops on American streets, and against their own citizens. Whereas siege It only gives a brief glimpse of it, successfully demonstrating how terrifying such a thing would be.
Review
siege A true roller coaster from start to finish. It reflects the nuances of the Muslim American population and the complexity of the struggle. The story flows and evolves, keeping you constantly engaged. The initial reaction from critics was lukewarm, but I think the sometimes erratic nature of the film feels right for the story it tells.
The cast is incredible. Of course, Denzel Washington is a master of intensity, and Annette Bening shines as the shape-shifting “Spook.” On the opposite end of the spectrum, Bruce Willis delivers a cold and calculating military man with an intimidating determination. His performance was underappreciated when the film debuted, even earning him a Golden Raspberry Award for Worst Performance. Despite this, I think there’s an underlying intensity to it that feels right for the character. Willis also delivers a line that feels especially thrilling at this moment in history
“The army is a broad sword, not a knife. Believe me, Senator, you don’t want the military in an American city.
Tony Shalhoub plays probably the most important character in siegeFrank Haddad is a Lebanese American FBI agent and Frank Hubbard’s right-hand man. This was a brilliant move because having an Arab American protagonist adds complexity and stakes later in the film. Add to this Shalhoub’s effortless charm and intensity, and you get a character that is extremely fascinating to watch.
bottom line
In its day, siege It never really found its audience. However, it is a well-executed and unconventional thriller that remains very relevant in today’s chaotic world. If you’re interested in a powerful story, well-developed characters, and a hard look at American military power, siege Worth your time.