Of the two Leonardo DiCaprio headed films released in 2006, I actually enjoyed Blood Diamond more than The Departed. Instead of a roundabout story about betrayal, this movie examines a much simpler and more brutal lifestyle experienced in Sierra Leone. While people will be drawn to DiCaprio's character, Danny Archer, Djimon Hounsou's Solomon Vandy is a character for the ages who truly moves the film.
The story is set during the Sierra Leone Civil War in 1999 and is based around Solomon and his family. Captured by R.U.F., Solomon is forced to look for diamonds for officials while his son becomes a child soldier. As Solomon stumbles upon a large, pure diamond, he hides it in order to retrieve it later. Danny Archer then comes into the story as he learns of Solomon and his giant diamond. Archer, tortured by his roots, is willing to risk everything to find Solomon's find of a lifetime. One my favorite touches to this film was when Archer pulls out one of his hollowed teeth in order to smuggle a tiny diamond in it. Compare that to the diamond that Solomon found and you know how much this rock means to Archer.
While Danny is guided by Solomon, Vandy wants to find his son. A heartbreaking scene at the end of this film is when Solomon is held at gunpoint by his son. Through love and belief, Solomon tells his son that this is not the life they should lead. Capped off by an embrace, the conclusion is fulfilling.
The film is tragic and beautiful, punctuated by a strong directorial hand from Edward Zwick and career performances by Leonardo DiCaprio and Djimon Hounsou. You won't regret watching this film. Conclusion: Watch It
Rating: 8.5/10
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