Standard Operating Procedure
Director: Errol Morris
Actors: Megan Ambuhl Graner, Javal Davis, Ken Davis
PlotThe film delves into the events that transpired at Abu Ghraib prison, focusing on the infamous 2004 scandal where photographs of Iraqi prisoners being abused by U.S. Army personnel were leaked to the public. It examines the circumstances and decisions that led to the abuse, presenting interviews with the soldiers involved, who were stationed at the prison. Through their accounts, the documentary explores not just the physical acts of torture and humiliation, but also the psychological impact on both the prisoners and the soldiers. It raises questions about the nature of authority, the ethics of interrogation tactics, and the responsibility of those higher up in the command chain.
The narrative further investigates the controversy surrounding the photographs themselves, analyzing how images can be both evidence and misrepresentation, and how they contributed to the global outrage against the U.S. military and government. By including expert testimony and analysis, the film seeks to understand the broader implications of the Abu Ghraib scandal on international law, military conduct, and America's image worldwide. It challenges viewers to consider the complexity of war, the moral dilemmas faced by individuals on the ground, and the unseen effects of standardized military procedures on human dignity and international relations.
Writers: N/A
Release Date: 29 May 2008
Runtime: 116 min
Rating: R
Country: United States
Language: English
Home Video Reviews
Adequate AV; divisive content makes for a one-time, potent watch with excellent Blu-ray enhancements.
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