March 27, 2007
Blood Diamond
Set against the backdrop of civil war and chaos in 1990's Sierra Leone, Blood Diamond is the story of Danny Archer (Leonardo DiCaprio) - an ex Mercenary from Zimbabwe - and Solomon Vandy (Djimon Hounsou) - a Mende fisherman. Both men are African, but their histories as different as any can be, until their fates become 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 (Jennifer Connelly), 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.
This is an extraordinary film, I can see why it has so many nominations.
Leonardo DiCaprio gives a brilliant performance, could do without the accent though, it just doesn't work with him.
Djimon Hounsou, (Gladiator, In America) gives a top notch performance as always. I love to see him work, he's just outstanding.
As a father searching for his son, to get him back from the rebels who took him and are training hi to be a soldier, my heart ached for him. He played this role so well, you can't help but be touched by his love, his drive, and his courage.
Connelly's role isn't huge, but she does a fine job as usual.
This movie is just too good. It is violent, only mature audiences should watch. The horrors of war are just so graphic, and this movie doesn't shield you from it.
I rate it very highly, a must see.
blood diamond