Camp X-Ray
Set against the backdrop of 9/11 this film explores the complex role of guards and the relationship between them and “detainees” of the infamous Guantanamo Bay.
The major crux of this entire film is the ever changing dynamic between Private Amy Cole (Kristin Stewart) and Ali Amir (Peyman Moaadi) a detainee, the term prisoner is explicitly banned because as Cole explains then they would be subject to the Geneva Conventions.
As a film that predominantly takes place in either the small corridor housing Ali’s cell or at his cell door window there was a great deal of pressure placed onto the performances of Stewart and Moaadi to provide all of the emotion and intrigue. Thankfully both actors put on a brilliant performance with an electrifying chemistry, which was surprising given that every scene they share has something separating them. Stewart has been criticised in the past for her stone faced lack of emotion in previous performances but in this film she delivers portraying a wide array of emotions from Cole ranging from frustration, loneliness and weakness.
The screenplay of this film is also quiet intriguing as it remains rather vague regarding Ali’s guilt or innocence which forces the audience to think and become uncomfortable without being overtly in your face.
Peter Sattler’s cinematography though out the film is also to be admired and ensures that his name is one to keep an eye for his next outing.
This is one of the most moving and engrossing films I have viewed this year and could potentially be an Oscar contender.
**** 1/2