Nominated for a Best Foreign Language film Oscar in 2008, director Joseph Cedar's Beaufort provides further evidence of the rising vitality of Israeli filmmaking, presenting a gripping study of war's futility while honoring the men who serve in battle with little or no understanding of exactly why they are fighting. Set in the year 2000, the film focuses on a small band of soldiers assigned to defend Beaufort castle, a legendary mountaintop stronghold, built during the Crusades and captured by Israel in the 1982 invasion of Lebanon. As Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon enters its final days, the Beaufort soldiers are preparing to evacuate under heavy shelling from Hezbollah, leaving several of the combatants confused about the validity of their mission. While much of the film involves anxious lookouts, impatient waiting, and casual camaraderie, Beaufort is also infused with subtle tension punctuated by sudden outbreaks of deadly violence. Adapted from screenwriter Ron Leshem's own novel, the film ably develops each character under the command of young and impulsive leader Liraz (Oshri Cohen), who will ultimately test the loyalty of his unit and discover the limits of his own courage. While maintaining sympathy toward Liraz and the men under his command, Beaufort offers a clear reminder that war is frequently synonymous with absurdity. Highly recommended. [Note: DVD extras include a behind-the-scenes featurette, nine deleted scenes, and trailers. Bottom line: a decent extras package for a fine foreign film.] (J. Shannon)
Beaufort
Kino, 126 min., in Hebrew w/English subtitles, not rated, DVD: $29.95, Sept. 30 Volume 23, Issue 6
Beaufort
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