Review of The War Within (2005) by Bryan W — 27 Jun 2011

While most modern family dramas are concerned with dynamics and generational gaps and most films on terrorism are punched up into action films, this one crosspollinates with astounding effects.

The conceit is simple: what if a Pakistani man who feels he is pushed to join the ranks of a terrorist cell confronts a moral dilemma when he reconnects with an old friend in the United States? In the film's first act, the protagonist is on a bus waiting to be dropped off at Grand Central Station carrying a bomb as part of a plan to demolish major landmarks across New York. At the last minute, the plan is foiled, and he is one of two who escapes capture, so he seeks refuge with an old friend and his family.

You may be able to predict much of the riffing in the film's middle, particularly when he encounters those who would dissuade or enhance his wavering beliefs, but thankfully the film stays away from the expected by avoiding rampant, unjust persecution of foreigners by United States government.

What really puts this film over the top is the blase way in which terrorism is displayed. The protagonist never comes across as a madman, and even as he is seen tampering with bombs, he never feels unsympathetic. Better yet, the film's climax is up for grabs until the final minute.

This should appeal to a variety of interested parties, but more than anything, those looking for a good drama that is different from everything else need look no further.