Amid the holocaust of internecine tribal fighting in Rwanda that sees the savage butchering of hundreds of thousands of men, women and children, one ordinary man (Oscar nominee Don Cheadle) musters the courage to save more than 1,000 helpless refugees by sheltering them in the hotel he manages. Sophie Okonedo, Nick Nolte and Joaquin Phoenix co-star in this powerful film (sort of an African version of Schindler's List) directed by Terry George.
Honestly, I wasn't expecting to like Hotel Rwanda. I wanted to see the film for Don Cheadle's Oscar-nominated performance, and that was about it. Sure, I expected it to be a "good" movie, but I didn't think I'd enjoy it. Well, I have to admit that I was wrong. I actually found Hotel Rwanda to be quite gripping. I wasn't expecting a story that would grab my attention early and hold onto it for the entire movie, but that's what I found. The story was well told and effectively scripted. The acting performances were great across the board. Don Cheadle has really proved himself as an A-list actor with Hotel Rwanda. I feel that I can safely add him to my list of actors that I'll watch in anything, just to see his performance. The entire cast of characters really brought the story to life in a way that I wasn't expecting. Their emotions brought me to the edge of my seat, and I actually cared about the outcome of the movie. The situation in Rwanda circa 1993 was depicted in a manner that didn't hide the horror, but also wasn't too gruesome to stomach. I can't imagine this story being told in a more effective manner. Hotel Rwanda is a very gripping story told in an expert fashion. Every aspect of the film made me believe in the characters and care about the outcome, which is something I can't say for too many dramas. The entire cast was excellent, especially the Oscar-nominated Don Cheadle. Hotel Rwanda is a solid all-around movie that I'd feel safe recommending to anyone looking for a good drama.
- eclapham
There is absolutely no reason for me to re-solidify the power the film, Hotel Rwanda erupts in one's soul. But after seeing it in the theatre last night I..well, just can't help it. This is a near masterpiece, a work of pure and simple genius. A politcal nightmare shoved down on all fours of it's primal feet. This is a shining example on how and why art can change the world..or at the very least throw a mirror on all of us who watch it. This story was ignored ten years ago. Over a million people died in this thoughtless genocide in Rwanda and what really did we know about it? How much knowledge would it have taken to stop it's murderous course? Hotel Rwanda doesn't judge or make accusations. Hotel Rwanda is simply about the people inside it, trying desperately to survive. Survival holds no grudges, just hope. Hope that we need more than ever in these times..ten year later.
- MH!!
One of the best films I have ever seen! Cheadle is wonderful. This story will remain with you for a long time and just might change the way you look at things. Magnificent story of human courage, faith, and spirit. Many of these images are very strong and shocking, depicting the inhuman violence and suffering of Rawanda--be prepared and forewarned! Very good DVD package with behind the scenes interviews and a return to Rwanda. Most certainly worth the view!
- TH Reviews
This movie stars Don Cheadle, who was also fantastic playing a completely different character in Oceans Eleven and Oceans Twelve. Here he plays a hotel manager during tribal fighting in Rwanda. His hotel becomes shelter for over 1,000 refugees. Each day he faces, he realizes that he cannot hold out much longer before they destroy his hotel and his family. It was a very strong and powerful movie, based on true events. Definitely recommend seeing.
- opk 1139471
A critical and mostly mainstream favorite, I won't deny this is a quality movie. But beyond the moral implications and Cheadle's outstanding acting, I just didn't find it that entertaining.
- Creeper
WOW! This is a very touching movie. Hotel Rwanda is not a light movie you want for a cozy evening at home. You will not leave this movie feeling happy and entertained; but you will feel moved. The tone of this movie could be like 'Schindler's List' meets 'Tears of the Sun.' Really though, it is not fair to compare other movies to this one because it is the true story of Paul Rusesabagina, and the incidents that happened in Rwanda in our lifetime. This is a real life hero! I suggest that you start by watching the Special Features FIRST! Watching the Special features first will not spoil the movie; it will introduce you to the real man and his story. It will make you care about the movie even more. The story is phenomenal, the acting is excellent. If you want to simply have fun, don't rent this movie. If you want to be deeply moved and impacted by the story of a real life hero then I highly recommend watching Hotel Rwanda. Hope this is helpful.
- Phatz