Kingdom of Silence

Kingdom of Silence is a compelling 2020 documentary by award-winning filmmaker Rick Rowley. The documentary includes interviews and appearances by Nasser Faris, Lawrence Wright, and Jamal Khashoggi himself through archival footage.

The film predominantly focuses on Jamal Khashoggi, the renowned Washington Post journalist renowned for his fearless reporting on the Saudi Arabian regime. Khashoggi was savagely assassinated in 2018, sparking global outrage and intense debate on the issue of journalistic freedom. The heart of Kingdom of Silence is an intense exploration of Khashoggi's life, his work, and the circumstances that led up to his brutal murder.

Nasser Faris, a veteran and multilingual actor, provides riveting narration throughout the documentary. His varied and emotive vocal tones give the viewers an intimate understanding of the story at hand. His narration is juxtaposed with the insightful contributions from Lawrence Wright, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author who is no stranger to the matters of Middle Eastern politics. Wright's informed perspective on the issues presented in the film lends an authoritative voice that deepens the gravitas of the unfolding narrative.

The inclusion of Khashoggi's voice through archival footage is both haunting and powerful. It reminds us that he was not just a newsmaker, but a news reporter who believed in the role of a free press in society. His inherent bravery and conviction to speak up against injustices would ultimately cost him his life.

The film's narrative dynamically weaves together personal accounts, political analysis, historical context, and the far-reaching implications of Khashoggi's murder. It offers an unflinching look at the power dynamics that exist within the hallowed halls of global diplomacy, especially within the context of U.S.-Saudi relations. Kingdom of Silence portrays how these relations warped through the decades, from the days of the Cold War, through 9/11 to the incident of Khashoggi's gruesome death.

The film doesn't limit itself to just detailing Khashoggi's life path but also paints a vivid picture of the geo-political landscape of Saudi Arabia. It showcases the controversial rule of the Saudi Royal family, their suppressive control over free speech, and their relationship with the United States, thus placing Khashoggi's murder in a broader context.

Kingdom of Silence does a stellar job at dissecting the multi-layered complexities of politicized narratives and their impact on the lives of individuals like Khashoggi, who dare to challenge them. Rowley's stellar direction and engaging storytelling make the difficult subject matter accessible to lay viewers without compromising on the depth of the issues discussed.

A memorably striking element of Kingdom of Silence is its cinematography, which includes an array of striking visuals that elevate the narrative. From high-resolution shots of landscapes to gritty visuals that bore the intensity of the theme, the visuals are a feast on their own. They facilitate in transporting the viewers, not only to Saudi Arabia but also into the lives of those impacted by the fruits of its political regime.

The music score by Nathan Halpern adds another layer of emotion to the narrative. The thoughtful composition underscores the gravity of the subject matter while also punctuating the quieter moments, allowing the audience to reflect on the human stories being told.

As a documentary, however, Kingdom of Silence isn't just an eye-opener into the narrative of suppressed voices. It also serves as a strong reminder of the harrowing price that can be paid for the freedom of speech - a right that all too often is taken for granted in democratic societies.

In essence, Kingdom of Silence is a must-watch for anyone interested in geopolitics, press freedom, and investigative journalism. Its powerful and poignant storytelling sheds light on a brave journalist's struggle against oppressive rule, the sacrifices made for freedom of press, and the broader context of US-Saudi relations. Deeply poignant and shockingly real, this feature-length documentary serves as a riveting call for heightened awareness and change in our society.