Birth of Zealots


If nothing else, this film shows how at a very tender age, both Israelis and Arabs are convinced that a strip of desert belongs to them and only them, and its value so crucial they are willing to die or kill for it.
Watching the young boys (particularly the Palestinian boy who witnesses his friend get shot in front of him) speak of how they wish to exact revenge, I could see the beginnings of extremist violence in the Middle East.

Fascinating film and a must see for all those who pretend to understand the plight of both Palestinians and Israelis.

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first of all - its not a strip of desert. this "strip of desert" contains an extremely holy sight for Muslims and a holy site for Jews as well.

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I'm agree with the above poster, the term "strip of desert" is at least very contemptuous towards a region that is a holy place not only for muslims and jews but also for christians.

I am afraid that some of these kids (in particular the jew kid --Moishe-- who lives in the occupied territories, the ultra-orthodox one --Schlomo-- and Mahmoud, the palestinian kid) are basically repeating what they hear from their parents, other adults, or through TV or radio stations.
Those kids are only copying the misguided behavior from the adults they see and hear everyday. A perfect example of what really means "vicious circle".

In the other hand the palestinian girl (Sanabel), the jewish twins (Yarko and Daniel) and Faraj are more open minded and reflexive. However the ending of the film and the current situation in that region of the world doesn't let too much room for optimism.

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I remember seeing this documentary a few years ago but didn't understand it too much. I watched it again yesterday. At the end of the film I had so much respect for the Palestinian kid, Faraj.

He showed such great leadership qualities, but the situation around him was overwhelming. Furthermore, it was maddening how his side was so dreadfully poor, whereas the Jewish children all seemed to live in a bubble of economic priviledge and American protection. How unfair.

B.Z. Goldberg succeeded only in showing this young caged lion the meat for a brief moment, and then he took it away. It was absolutely demoralizing to watch on film. I wonder if Faraj hated this man who proceeded so temerariously in the name of idealism? I would. Goldberg succeeded in winning many awards, including garnering an Oscar nomination, but what did this film give to Faraj?

So, of course the Arabs are so incredibly angry. So am I.

Interesting to note, this was released in the year of the 9/11 attacks.

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