Zero Dark Thirty

'Zero Dark Thirty' (2003), the critically acclaimed 2013 film about the pursuit and elimination of Osama Bin Laden, in my opinion is a brilliantly crafted film that dramatises the hunt for Bin Laden, in such detail that the audience becomes at one with the leading female protagonist. We emphasise with her and follow her through the aggravating process of finding this one man she has worked so long for to find.

The film, both visually and orally editing wise is wonderful. 'Zero Dark Thirty' has very recently won a (joint) award at the oscars for the best sound editing along with 'Skyfall'.

One of the last major scenes in the film that runs for a length of about half an hour, is the final assault on Bin Laden's holding place. This tense scene puts the audience in the U.S operatives position as they push forward through the house.

The editing and cinematography in this scene takes an obvious yet subtle, natural change in technique that parallels/compliments what's happening on-screen.

• POV (point of view) shots are used throughout the scene, putting the audience in the world of the film, helping us feel the tense atmosphere.

• The editing cuts from POV's to handheld, 'shaky cam' shots, another technique that makes the audience feel involved with the film.

• Soundtracks/non-diegetic sounds are non-existent throughout the entirety of the scene. Atmos/diegetic are key in this scene as they drive forward and portray the intensity of the situation.

• The editing cuts too a from different character's perspectives, presumably to show everyone involved, and to emphasise that the operatives are a close-knit, professional unit.

A Different Approach

Thinking on different terms about the film 'Zero Dark Thirty', and this scene specifically, you could say that despite all the special effects, the Hollywood style shots, weaponry etc. this is fact nothing close whatsoever to what happened in the actual events that took place when eliminating Bin Laden; no one noes what happened that day, what we're watching is all fake, an act, a facade. Despite the films approach on subject, it could still heavily be seen as an obnoxious, provocative propaganda tool for America that says "We eliminated the number 1 wanted person/terrorist in the world, and this is how we did it. Take a good look at our weaponry, the professionalism, our sheer power and technology." It's no wonder other countries, family members, religious groups have condemned the film.

Stripping back everything to the foundations, this film displays and perhaps glorifies the capture of killing of a person, a human being.

In conclusion, 'Zero Dark Thirty' is a film that is technically brilliant, but has created much controversy surrounding its deeper meanings and ideology meanings.