FACE OF THE ENEMY

Cinemavixion Review

Hassan Ildari's 1989 thriller, "Face of the Enemy," plunges viewers into a dark narrative of vengeance and the psychological scars left by captivity. The film meticulously crafts the descent of a former CIA agent, brilliantly portrayed through the ensemble's performance, as he seeks retribution against the woman he holds responsible for his suffering. Rooted in the harrowing experience of prolonged torture and the unwavering refusal to yield secrets, the protagonist's quest for revenge is a compelling exploration of trauma's enduring grip. Ildari skillfully navigates the complex emotional landscape, drawing a stark contrast between past torment and present obsession. While the film delves into intense themes, the performances, particularly from Rosanna DeSoto, George DiCenzo, and Cynthia Harrington, anchor the narrative with a palpable sense of desperation and resolve. "Face of the Enemy" offers a thought-provoking, albeit grim, examination of how the past can relentlessly shape one's future.