Into the Fire

I admit a skepticism and bias going to certain films nowadays due to the liberal agenda spread throughout so many current movies and “documentaries” in these times. There is a blatant slant in most of them that detracts from any value they might have because the film in no way gives full disclosure to the current situations in our world today but rather a one-sided political version, concealing much truth in the process and substituting genuine lies to persuade, convince, and manipulate its audience, most of whom already hold their views. So I avoid most of them (Syriana, The Valley of Elah, anything with Michael Moore’s name affiliated with it, etc.).

“The Kingdom” is a fast moving film with quality actors giving genuine performances without fanfare or extravagance. The movie gets right into the plans in action of a Saudi terrorist group in their homeland, the outcome of which is reminiscent of the Oklahoma City bombing and the terror of the 9/11 tragedy. If you want to evaluate the flow and the contents sans politics (which is difficult), this is a high quality film. I found myself choking back sobs at times because of the blatant hatred and its widespread devastation.

The establishment of friendship which occurs through the perseverance of the FBI lead investigator and the Arab Colonel is both frustrating and ultimately engaging. It’s true in many ways that they are not so different as men. They seek to discover the perpetrators of a heinous crime against their own. They love their families and desire to keep them safe. The cultural differences are shown with both humor and extreme contrast.

Here’s the rub, and actually for me I could cast it aside until the final scene, the final words. This is where the phrase “moral equivalence” is defined. This is where the film took a decisive nosedive for me. (For more commentary on the movie, see Mike Duran’s post “Over-hyping ‘The Kingdom’” on his blog Decompose.) I won’t tell you what was said because up until then, although visible, the moral equivalence wasn’t dominant. One could see the intent, but it wasn’t given as a sermon. Until the end. When it left a sour taste and a righteous anger deep in my soul.

For a piercing story, fast-action, absolute quality acting, and a blind look at the political implications, I would give this film 4 stars—if only I could ignore those searing, wrongful implications. View at your own risk.

(A definite caution if you’re language sensitive.)

Father, there is no question we are all sinners in desperate need of your Son’s salvation. When people choose religion over relationship with you, your people pray for them. When religion dominates and demands death for all who do not accept its lies and rituals, its believers murder. How can we glorify and defend that which stands in opposition to you? Lord, help me to have the right attitude in all of this. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.