Iffy for 16+
Over-simplified drama takes hard look at torture.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this heavy drama isn't for kids, even though it stars tween/teen favorites Reese Witherspoon and Jake Gyllenhaal. Not only does it deal with the many complicated political and cultural issues surrounding torture, but the dialogue -- which is focused on policy and intrigue -- will likely bore younger viewers. There's also plenty of violence, including explosions, shooting, and, yes, torture (there are difficult images of the victim's pain and the aggressor's visceral calculations). The torture victim appears naked in a small, dank cell, mostly in shadow. Other scenes show upset victims and negotiators; particularly wrenching is a young wife's anguished pleading that a CIA officer answer questions about her missing husband. Language includes some uses of "f--k" and other minor profanity.
- Families can talk about how the movie portrays the practice of torture. As viewers sort out their own feelings about what he goes through, does it matter whether Anwar is guilty or innocent? How is watching torture different than seeing other types of media violence? Should anti-torture laws ever be sacrificed for security?
What to watch for
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Violence: Brutal violence throughout, including torture, as well as explosions in crowded streets. An early scene shows a suicide bombing in North Africa in which a CIA agent dies in Douglas' lap (blood everywhere). Anwar is tortured repeatedly -- he's tied to a chair, beaten, choked, dragged, kicked, and electrified. Photos of martyrs show maimed bodies. In a tense, lengthy scene, Fatima runs to stop Khalid's suicide mission, with pounding percussion and fast cutting. A bombing near the end is catastrophic, killing multiple people and leaving others traumatized and bloody.
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Sex: Khalid and Fatima kiss a couple of times. Anwar appears naked in several scenes, usually shadowed; his nakedness (which is non-sexual) is a sign of his vulnerability (his body is bloodied and bruised from torture).
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Language: Several uses of "f--k," plus occasional other profanity, like "hell," "son of a bitch," and "goddammit."
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Consumerism: Sony TV, Washington Post.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: Several characters smoke cigarettes and cigars. Douglas drinks hard liquor to show despair; he also goes to a bar where he smokes an opium-like drug from a water pipe. Douglas appears drunk and upset.
Fan Reviews provided by
4
keeps your attention but gets a little confusing... by irishmoviefan13
This movie is definitely worth seeing and will really make you think. the only negative thing i can say is that it got kindof confusing towards the end.
5
Great movie -- scary because of how real it is by ld876
Most in the US don't realize how extraordinary rendition can effect each of us -- and how powerless we are to stop it. Reese, Jake, Meryl -- everyone is well cast and plays their role perfectly.
More should see this flick. I don't know why this is getting poor reviews -- it's suspenseful, romantic and thought provoking -- falling into the 'Blood Diamond' realm of movies.
5
Go See it in the Theater!!!! by somerbabee
This movie was amazing! I highly reccomend it! Definitely makes you leave the theater in silence and hits you with some strong realizations about what goes around all around the world that we are so not aware of. Go see it!
5
Rendition by jimmyicMovie
Do not miss this film. I repeat, do not miss this film.
In a time of protecting our civil liberties and protecting our safety, the line is sometimes crossed. Could this be one of those times? You are able to see both sides of the issue and find yourself being drawn into your own judgements. All character portrayals are flawless and it is one of the best dramas we have seen in years!!
5
A prespective of how the Judicial system and the constituion are being abused by MikeyGofer
I have read few of those replies that gave this movie - OH NO - Don't care - ratings. I was merely surprised about their feedback. Surely, seeing ths movie brings a better understanding of how our rights - the constitution - must be respected and NOT over looked and abused. By defending the constitution does not mean that people are flirting with terrorists! watch out when you make such hasty judgement! those who have seen this movie were free to reveal a critical side of the current political system that must be contained and brought back to sanity . Americans are generally loving and caring individuals but we also believe in the law and the due process.
The actors and most importantly (Omar Metwally) did a great job. Yet, I am angered with the ways terrorists view America but i still believe we could have done better as a government dealing with these issues. the war on Iraq was a great failure. You must be fair in giving your opinion and not just echoeing what others say.
5
Rendition is a Must See by 1cinemafan
This movie was completely mesmerizing. It was very pertinent to the current times, the acting was wonderful, and it was quite poignant. It really made you think; we discussed it with our teenage daughter the entire way home from the theater. A Must See.
3
Definitely paints America in a negative light by movies708
I really am getting tired of America being portrayed in such an evil manner. This movie definitely does that. Reese Witherspoon who is an excellent actress, really doesnt show up that much in the film. Its mostly centered around Jake Gyllenhaal and the husband. Its interesting, but definitely an America-basher.
5
great movie by fiestydragn
I think I went through a full range of emotions during this movie...from annoyance to complete disgust. Don't be deterred though. The story is very compelling, the acting is superb, your sympathies will be stretched and tested repeatedly....and Jake Gyllenhal is too HOT. That's all. Go see it.
3
instantly forgettable by susanamarr
great actors with not much to do and instantly forgettable. should have been, and could have been, better.
4
A true surprise by Ewansgal88
I must admit, I went into this movie to kill a few hours. I debated whether or not to see this one or to see Across the Universe for the third time. Reluctantly, I decided to go for the one I hadn't seen. I'm glad I did! This film makes such an important point that applies to life today. The cast is absolutely unbelievable and the script is so strong, so clever! Don't be discouraged, as I was, at the thought of a political drama... this one is worth your time!