The Kingdom is not a completely realistic portrayal of life in Saudi Arabia, nor is it terribly realistic in any other sense. Still, it feels real. This is a movie that exists in a heightened reality, a world a few steps removed from our own. It portrays events that could happen similarly in our world, but not really. If you want real you will need to look up a documentary, watch world news, or go to Saudi Arabia. Fortunately I do not go to the movies to see realism, just a good story that plays by the rules it sets up. This story is believable within the confines of itself, it doesn't contradict itself and delivers exciting goods in the process.
Leading the team is Ronald Fleury (Jamie Foxx), he is joined by Grant Sykes (Chris Cooper), Janet Mayes (Jennifer Garner), and Adam Leavitt (Jason Bateman). These guys are more than ready to hit the ground running and bring these terrorists to justice. They are met by American embassy man Damon Schmidt (Jeremy Piven), who attempts to guide them through the customs and requirements of the Saudi kingdom.
Throughout the entirety of The Kingdom, there is always something to be entertained by. Even when the bullets aren't flying and we have to be content with mere talking The Kingdom offers great entertainment. Not to belabor the point, this is not real, I do not watch this film and see any kind of documentary-esque truth to it. Rather, I watch this as an intriguing work of fiction that is sideways related to the real world. The script by Matthew Michael Carnahan and direction from Peter Berg will draw you in and completely hold your attention. You will find yourself wondering what is going to happen next as you become more and more invested in the story.
The performances are all quite good, with each actor filling a required component. Foxx is the tough guy leader who will stop at nothing to get the job done. Jennifer Garner carries the emotional weight of the film. Chris Cooper has an eager energy that is laced with humor. Bateman is the smart-ass, always ready with a quick one liner. Beyond the FBI team, there is the performance of Ashraf Barhom as Colonel Al Ghazi, leader of the Saudi investigation. His work is phenomenal, filled with emotion and unease, seemingly in a no win situation.
Bottomline. Looking for an exciting film that will have you guessing what will happen next? A film that delivers an interesting story blended with frenetic action? Do you like a little comedy infused with your serious drama? If you answered yes to any of these questions, give The Kingdom a shot. Peter Berg has directed a nice slice of real world inspired action.
Recommended.
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