The film Zero Dark Thirty by director Kathryn Bigelow has sparked intense debate regarding its artistic choices and shortcomings in its representation, raising questions about its influence on our collective perception of history.
Tl;dr
- Zero Dark Thirty altered details for dramatic effect.
- The film exaggerates the use of torture by the U.S. government.
- The portrayal of Jennifer Matthews in the film is contested.
- The film gives too much credit to a single individual for capturing bin Laden.
The Truth Behind Zero Dark Thirty
The critically acclaimed film Zero Dark Thirty is famous for its portrayal of the U.S. government’s hunt for Osama bin Laden. However, several details have been altered to heighten the dramatic intensity of the film, calling into question its accuracy.
An Exaggeration of Torture Usage
From the beginning of the film Zero Dark Thirty, the U.S. government is depicted as ruthless in using extreme interrogation methods on its prisoners. However, according to several high-ranking officials, this portrayal is exaggerated. They argue that while some torture methods may have been used, they were rarely effective and should not be portrayed as common or successful.
The Contested Portrayal of Jennifer Matthews
The character of Jessica, portrayed by Jennifer Ehle, is based on real CIA agent Jennifer Matthews, whose work on the bin Laden investigation ultimately led to her death. However, several people who knew Jennifer Matthews took issue with the simplified and potentially condescending portrayal of her character.
The Excessive Attribution of Credit to an Individual
The film suggests that the character Maya, played by Jessica Chastain, is solely responsible for locating the terrorist. This claim has angered several government officials who felt insulted and overlooked by this simplistic narrative.
A Controversial yet Acclaimed Film
Despite the controversies surrounding its historical accuracy, Zero Dark Thirty was a huge success. It garnered multiple nominations and awards at year-end ceremonies and was a modest box office hit.
What Do We Think?
If Zero Dark Thirty provides a gripping reenactment of bin Laden’s hunt, it is important to remember that the film takes liberties with historical reality. It is necessary to separate fiction from fact, even in dramas based on real events. Cinematic art has the ability to evoke profound emotional reactions but must also respect the truth of the events it depicts.