Review of The Devil's Double (2011) by Roxanne R — 06 Dec 2011

Hopefully many of you have kept up with politics and world events to remember a name that will live in infamy: Saddam Hussein and his sons Uday and Qusay. The world is thankful that the Hussein axes of evil is dead (Saddam, Qusay and Uday) but did you ever wonder how corrupted, evil and sadistic was the Black Prince a.k.a Uday Hussein? Well The Devil's Double" is based on the experiences of Latif Yahia, who was groomed to become Uday's double. In this role, he survived no less than a dozen assassination attempts. The movie portrays him as an Iraqi soldier forced to take the job after beatings and threats to his family; he is seen throughout as a respectable figure with contempt for Uday and a good deal of courage in standing up to him. Dominic Cooper gives a brilliant performance as both Uday and Latif.

As Uday, he is a sadistic, coke-snorting, drinker, murderer and rapist. As Latif, he is a reluctant stand-in who witnesses Uday's evil and hates him while at the same time enjoying his luxurious lifestyle. The film takes place in Baghdad and although its fictionalized, the director indicated that most of the violence, torture and depravity probably took place during the Hussein regime. Uday was a vile man and a menace to women. As I watched this film I was stunned to see the total control Uday Hussein had over anyone in his path. He would grab schoolgirls, rape brides, torture men and women, his lust had no limits! Oh I have to admit that I loved his suits, his watch and car collection were amazing. Best when viewed in blu-ray and highly recommended but be warned: very violent!