5/30/06

Review: "Paradise Now"
By Javed Mohammed

May 30th, 2006

“Paradise Now" attempts to provide a window into the world of what is commonly called “suicide bombers.” The story follows the lives of two young disenfranchised Palestinian men. They are both mechanics and due to influences in the community decide to become “suicide bombers.” I won’t cover the whole plot of the story, but share some insights.
The back-story covers some of the reasons as to why the men decide to take on their mission. The counter-view is presented by a pacifist Palestinian woman Suha, who has returned from living in Europe. The plan falls apart and the bombers have to re-think if this is the best course of action.

Although the film is serious, one of the ironies presented from a Western viewpoint is when Suha goes to a video-store and finds out she can rent videos not of feature films but of videos made by suicide-bombers before their missions as well as what happens to collaborators.

The film does not portray the protagonists as heroes or as evil-doers. Although it is hard for a two hour film to explore all the dimensions of these acts, it is interesting that the people portrayed were mainly secular people, although at one point one of the would-be bombers is shown getting ready for his prayers. Other than going to paradise (which is not a small thing) and losing job, you don’t really see how the characters changed. If there was some indication of the pressure cooker environment, that could have been the turning point.

Other than seeing Persian films, this is one of the few Arab films I have seen. I was very impressed by the cinematography, the plot, characters and suspense. The plot is engaging and takes plenty of unexpected turns, and the settings are well done and well shot. The contrasts of the slums in the occupied territories and Israel are stark and give a small window into the difference in lives of the people. However, as there is no Israeli main character that is portrayed it is left to the viewers insights to figure out the differences. The film is very moving and regardless of one’s political viewpoint it is very gripping. You don’t want the protagonist to be successful in his mission. The other contrast that is striking is the look of the two mechanics from dis-shelved unshaven characters in mechanics clothes to clean-shaven, groomed and dressed in suits. The tension builds up and for most of the latter part of the film it has you on edge. Surprisingly even though the film’s quality could have indicated it came from Hollywood (not to say everything Hollywood is quality, far from it), there is no violence, or anything naughty (except a small kiss and swear scene)

Besides giving a Palestinian view as to why suicide bombers in occupied territories do what they do, it brings valid arguments as to what it achieves. Surprisingly even though this could have been a very violent film, it's something that teenagers can see. Infact my daughter saw it in their public school and that's how I got motivated to see it. I would highly recommend watching it in a group, family, friends etc because it can lead to interesting conversations and viewpoints.

The films ending does not provide a conclusion or leads you a certain way leaving it open to interpretation. . it does not condone suicide bombings. The pain of the families is briefly touched upon The film regardless of your political viewpoint is insightful and one of the most powerful movies I have seen.