Nominated for five Academy Awards and four Golden Globes, Zero Dark Thirty is one of the most controversial and talked about films of 2013. With talented actors such as Jessica Chastain, Joel Edgerton, Chris Pratt, and Jason Clarke, the film addresses the harsh realities of terrorism.

The first scene introduces Dan, a CIA operative, who is holding a Saudi Arabian terror suspect hostage using ruthless tactics to get information by saying, “When you lie to me, I hurt you.” This scene gives the viewer an uneasiness, but shows an interesting technique the director uses to demonstrate the seriousness and realness of the situation.
A younger CIA operative named Maya, played by Chastain looks upon the actions of Dan with both horror and determination. The hostage eventually gives up the name Abu Ahmed al-Kuwaiti, Osama bin Laden’s, supposedly, favorite courier. This begins Maya’s obsession with finding al-Kuwaiti in hopes of also finding bin Laden.
Zero Dark Thirty does not try to force political viewpoints upon the moviegoers nor does it try to sugarcoat any of the details of terrorism. Jessica Chastain masterfully plays her character, creating a woman who is strong, smart, and unafraid to speak her mind. With lines like “I’m going to smoke everyone involved in this op and then I’m going to kill Osama bin Laden”, the viewer immediately falls in love with her determination for justice.
“The movie was unbelievable. It deserves all the nominations it is receiving because it is truly an extraordinary film,” Convent of the Sacred Heart senior Jenna Hascher said. “Jessica Chastain deserves every ‘Best Actress’ award. I would recommend the film to everyone.”
The World Literature class, taught by Mrs. Linda Vasu, saw the film together as they began studying espionage and terrorism. Mrs. Vasu actually had some of the same professors as the director, Kathryn Bigelow, as they both attended Columbia University Graduate School.
“She dares to make films that defy gender roles and stereotypes. I love that she tackles the male-centric film genre of war and terrorism, and features a female protagonist,” Mrs. Vasu said.
Whether your are interested in learning more about the capture of bin Laden or just interested in seeing an action packed film, Zero Dark Thirty is an historically important film you will enjoy seeing.
 
– Allison Davis, Layout Editor