(Film Review) The White Helmets

Time to read: 2 min read

Movie Cover Movie Poster

I’m willing to sacrifice my soul for the sake of the people. This job is sacred.

Review

This film follows a group of Syrian volunteer rescue workers from the Syrian Civil Defense, or colloquially known as the White Helmets. These volunteers rescue people from the rubble after bombings. The subject matter is heavy with much footage from actual bombings and their aftermath, including rescues from the rubble and people sitting in front of the TV waiting to find out if their loved ones are dead.

Yes this film presents a very narrow narrative, but the film wasn’t intended to portray the entire complex geopolitical web behind the Syrian civil war. This film portrays a small but poignant narrative of a group of volunteers who try to help the civilians who are caught in the crossfires of war. There are many conspiracy theories and there are isolated incidents of improper conduct by the White Helmets but most of these theories are probably the result of a widespread disinformation campaign.

The Syrian conflict is still ongoing and the civilian casualties are still adding up; this film paints a powerful picture on the horrors of war.

Conclusion

A viseral portrayal of the effects of war on civilians.

Overall rating: 8.1

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