Arabs & Terrorism

Bassam Haddad, an Arab-American political science professor turned filmmaker, is the host for this series of three 45-minute programs examining widely divergent views on the nature and use of terrorist methods in the modern world, particularly the Middle East. The first episode deals with the definition of terrorism (which, as it turns out, is extremely fluid), the second with what's called “state terrorism” as opposed to that practiced by groups and individuals, and the third with the contrast between terrorism and justifiable resistance to oppression. The unique aspect of the series is the opportunity it affords spokespersons representing a wide spectrum of opinions—from Hamas and Hezbollah officials to Israeli anti-terrorist experts and American theorists such as the late Jeane Kirkpatrick—to confront one another. But while the interviewees are given ample opportunity to express their views, the level of give-and-take here—some see interview excerpts on Haddad's laptop and then respond—is limited (more often Haddad simply juxtaposes clips from the various interviews—more than 100 were conducted—to offer the appearance of an ongoing debate). Still, the sheer quantity and diversity of opinion, complemented by numerous person-on-the-street interviews, lend Arabs & Terrorism both richness and depth. DVD extras include a “making-of” featurette, crew bios, a photo gallery of interviewees, and DVD-ROM accessible research materials. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)