Set against the backdrop of civil war and chaos in 1990’s Sierra Leone, Danny Archer, a South African mercenary, and Solomon Vandy, a Mende fisherman are joined in a common quest to recover a rare pink diamond that can transform their lives. While in prison for smuggling, Archer learns that Solomon–who was taken from his family and forced to work in the diamond fields–has found and hidden the extraordinary rough stone. With the help of Maddy Bowen, an American journalist whose idealism is tempered by a deepening connection with Archer, the two men embark on a trek through rebel territory–a journey that could save Solomon’s family and give Archer the second chance he thought he would never have.

Fascinating history does not always make exciting compelling film but in the case of “Blood Diamond” it does.

“Blood Diamond”, nominated for five Academy Awards including Best Actor (DiCaprio) and Best Supporting Actor (Hounsou), is one of the best films in the past decade. The movie takes on big issues like child soldiers, diamond wars, failed states, kids with chopped-off hands, random slaughter of villagers, millions of refugees. Have you ever wondered how diamonds are produced, from where, by who? I have never realized how some diamonds were come by, and the things done to the African people for them. This movie is trying to tell you about a seriouse situation, how many people are suffering and dying from the damn bloody diamond. This movie is very worth it to watch not even because of good story and pictures, but also knowing what’s going on in Africa.

It is testimony to the power of film to bring a true story to life.

The script is very well written. It’s truly showing what’s happening in other parts of the world right now. The pacing of the film is relatively quick, and offers a sobering view of the underground diamond trade without appearing too preachy. You will be on the edge of your seat the whole movie. Also many emotions rise up in this story of family, greed, war, and love. The story is enough to make you realize the seriousness of diamond industry in Africa.

It has wonderful pictures and sound!!

The cinematography is splendid and superb. While the movie has plenty of violence and brutality, it is still central to this story. The picture is raw and original. With moving soundtrack, you will feel and realize something’s going very wrong in some ares on the Earth by your eyes and ears. Background sounds, languages and accents showed superb research and were used effectively. A wonderful soundtrack by James Newton Howard accompanies Blood Diamond, making it a film that is both visually and audibly satisfying.

Blood Diamond features an Oscar ‘worthy’ cast of Leonardo DiCaprio, Djimon Hounsou, and Jennifer Connelly.

The actions are heart-pounding and nonstop, and additionally, it does not distract from the storyline. DiCaprio makes the movie shine and his performance will make you want to watch it over and over again, because he brings out so much truth into the picture. Even though some have criticized DiCaprio’s weak South African/Boer accent, you will soon realize that he is very convincing in this role. It demonstrats why he’s one of Hollywood’s most versatile actors. Also Djimon Hounsou shows why he is a great real star of the film. He is outstanding and does an astounding job as Solomon Vandy. Jennifer Connely is also decent enough.

It is one of the year’s best.

Blood Diamond is one of must-watch movies. It has a good story, great cast, pictures and music as well as a message to the world about an awareness to the diamond issue. You will like this movie and want to watch agina and again as I watched this movie 3 times. Haven’t watched Blood Diamond yet? Get the DVD right now! I strongly recommend this movie, Blood Diamond!

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Still photos

Sources:

IMDB
Yahoo Movie
Cinematic Intelligence Agency