THE DISSIDENT

This documentary that vividly dissects the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi generates genuine indignation from the audience.

Even if you already know most of the details about the harrowing murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul four years ago, The Dissident still is a compelling and shocking documentary about the subject.

The main reason for the film's success is that it doesn't just dissect the murder itself, but does a great job in unravelling all the events leading up to that foul deed, both personal and geopolitical, whereby tellingly and smartly Khashoggi is never beatified by the filmmakers.

Comprised of vivid recreations, interviews with Khashoggi's friends and colleagues, and compelling archive footage The Dissident is near-forensic in its indictment of Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman as the puppet master behind the journalist's murder.

Movies like these always work best when they are able to generate genuine indignation from the audience and here The Dissident excels. The film truly is an exquisitely crafted, important documentary.

release: 2020

director: Bryan Fogel

starring: Jamal Khashoggi, Omer Abdulaziz, Irfan Fidan, Recep Kiliç