Review of The Act of Killing (2012) by Christian W — 30 Apr 2014

As I first started watching the movie, Anwar Congo's representation of the events of 1965 made the film seem staged or at least revisionist, a caricature. That is until Adi Zulkadri shows up. Zulkadri is the first participant to question their actions and relative place in history. A handsome man troubled by his past, Zulkadri accuses the Indonesian para-military forces as the cruel ones, not the communists. Also, the "victims" in the re-enactments realistically portray communist victims, especially the kids with Congo and the guy portraying his Chinese step dad. The victims' tears become real. Kicking, Screaming, Burning. Kids crying. More than halfway through and Congo finally admits to his nightmares from the killings. And then he plays the victim...wretches.

Being the comic relief of sorts, Koto's photo shoots, election campaign. waterfall scene become Wes Anderson-like in appearance. Vibrant colors, contrasting images, and dynamic situations...Pink and Blue, Black and Red, etc.

I rate this movie a 4 for what it becomes....hang in there, it's worth it.