Watch Defeating ISIS: The Impossible Coalition

Defeating ISIS: The Impossible Coalition is a powerful and insightful documentary film that sheds light on the harsh realities and complexities of the global fight against terrorism. Directed by Xavier Muntz and produced by RAI, the film offers a unique and in-depth perspective on the many challenges and obstacles faced by the international community in their efforts to eliminate the threat of ISIS.

Through a series of interviews with key players, including high-ranking politicians, military leaders, and intelligence officials, the film paints a comprehensive picture of the political and military landscape surrounding the war on terror. The audience is given a glimpse into the workings of various organizations, including NATO, the United States military, the Iraqi government, and the Syrian Democratic Forces. Each of these entities plays a crucial role in trying to eliminate the ISIS threat, and the film does an excellent job of highlighting their strengths and weaknesses.

One of the key themes explored in the film is the essential role of cooperation and collaboration in the battle against ISIS. The sheer scale and complexity of the problem demand that organizations and governments work together to achieve a common goal. However, as the film shows, this is easier said than done. The complex geopolitical dynamic between various players, including Russia, Iran, and Turkey, has created a challenging environment for cooperation. Furthermore, internal disagreements within organizations such as the U.S. military and the Iraqi government have stifled progress at times.

The filmmakers also explore the massive toll that the conflict has had on the people of Iraq and Syria. The war has led to the displacement of millions of people, as well as the destruction of countless homes, businesses, and cultural sites. Tragically, many civilians have also lost their lives in the ongoing conflict. The emotional impact of the war is evident in the interviews with individuals who have witnessed its devastating effects firsthand. The film puts a human face on the conflict, reminding the audience that the fight against ISIS is not just about geopolitics but also about the lives of real people.

Another strength of the film is its focus on the various military strategies employed in the fight against ISIS. The filmmakers do an excellent job of breaking down complex military tactics and explaining them in a way that is accessible to the general audience. Through interviews with military leaders, the film examines the effectiveness of various strategies, including air strikes, ground offensives, and special operations. It also explores the challenges of coordinating these strategies across different organizations and nations, especially when it comes to intelligence gathering and sharing.

The film's direction and cinematography are also commendable. The filmmakers use a mix of interviews, archival footage, and on-the-ground reporting to create a comprehensive and visually arresting film. The use of drone footage is particularly effective in showing the size and scale of the conflict. The film's pacing is also well handled, with the narrative flowing smoothly from one topic to the next.

Overall, Defeating ISIS: The Impossible Coalition is an insightful and necessary film that offers a unique perspective on the fight against terrorism. It serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges and complexities associated with this ongoing conflict. The film's ability to put a human face on the conflict while also breaking down complex geopolitical and military strategies makes it an essential watch for anyone interested in the topic.

Defeating ISIS: The Impossible Coalition is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 55 minutes.