Last Hijack
Last Hijack

Movie spotlight

Last Hijack

2014
Movie
83 min
Dutch

Documentary that follows the lives of two pirates and their community on the Somali coastline; what are the incentives of the pirates, why did they become pirates, how did they grow up in a country with political chaos, war and extreme poverty? The narrative structure is built around two interweaving story-lines; one depicting the "present", the daily lives of the pirates and their community, and the second in the "past", revealing through epic animation, the unfolding of a recent hijacking.

Insights

IMDb7.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes93%
Metacritic75/100
Google Users89%
Director: Tommy OliverGenres: Documentary, Crime

Plot Summary

This documentary follows the story of Mohamedou Ould Slahi, a former detainee at Guantanamo Bay, as he grapples with his past and the lasting effects of his imprisonment. The film interweaves his personal narrative with the broader context of the war on terror, exploring themes of justice, memory, and the search for truth. It offers a profound look at the human cost of political conflict and the resilience of the human spirit.

Critical Reception

Last Hijack received widespread critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and intimate portrayal of Mohamedou Ould Slahi's experience. Reviewers lauded its courage in tackling a sensitive and complex subject matter, highlighting its emotional impact and its contribution to the discourse surrounding Guantanamo Bay. The film was praised for giving a voice to a man whose story had been largely hidden from the public.

What Reviewers Say

  • A deeply moving and essential documentary that humanizes a complex and often controversial figure.

  • The film's strength lies in its unflinching honesty and the profound vulnerability of its subject.

  • A vital and timely exploration of justice, memory, and the enduring impact of state power.

Google audience: Audiences praised 'Last Hijack' for its emotional depth and the compelling narrative of Mohamedou Ould Slahi. Many found the film eye-opening and important, highlighting its ability to foster empathy and understanding for individuals affected by geopolitical events. The documentary was frequently described as thought-provoking and a crucial piece of storytelling.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize: Documentary at the Sundance Film Festival (2014).

Fun Fact

The film's director, Tommy Oliver, initially intended to make a documentary about Somali pirates, but the project shifted focus after he encountered Mohamedou Ould Slahi's story.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review