Watch Occupation 101

Occupation 101 is a documentary film that delves into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and explores the root causes of the occupation of Palestine by Israel. The film was released in 2006 and has since become a significant voice in the ongoing discussion about the conflict. The movie provides a comprehensive analysis of the history of the conflict, covering everything from the British Mandate in Palestine, which ended in 1948, to the 1967 Six-Day War and beyond. The filmmakers detail the Israeli settlements in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, the checkpoints, the wall, and the restrictions Palestinians face in their daily lives. The film also highlights the role of the United States in providing Israel with billions of dollars of aid every year and supporting its policies.

Through interviews with various experts, including historians, politicians, former Israeli soldiers, and Palestinian refugees, the film presents a balanced perspective on the conflict. The audience is given an understanding of the grievances and motivations of both sides, as well as the complexity of the situation.

The film does not shy away from depicting the harsh realities of the occupation. Several scenes show the destruction of Palestinian homes, the shooting of protests, and the trauma experienced by children living under occupation. The film also exposes the disparity of power and resources between the two sides.

However, Occupation 101 does not merely focus on portraying the conflict as a black-and-white issue. It also highlights the efforts of Israelis and Palestinians who are working towards a peaceful resolution. The film showcases the actions of organizations and individuals that are advocating for an end to the occupation and promoting dialogue between the two sides.

One of the most significant aspects of the film is that it humanizes the conflict. The interviews with ordinary Palestinians and Israelis provide a personal perspective that helps the audience empathize with the experiences of those living under occupation. Through storytelling, the filmmakers appeal to emotions, making it difficult for the viewers to remain indifferent.

The movie makes a compelling case for the urgency of the situation. The film argues that the ongoing occupation is a violation of human rights and destabilizes the region. It also warns that if the occupation continues, it will lead to more violence and extremism on both sides. The film calls for action from the international community to pressure Israel to end the occupation and support peace negotiations.

The film features several well-known personalities who provide their insights into the conflict. James Akins, a former U.S. ambassador to Saudi Arabia, weighs in on the U.S. role in the conflict, while Avi Shlaim, an Israeli historian, offers his analysis of the conflict's history. Bishop Bartlett Jr., an African-American civil rights activist, draws parallels between the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the U.S. civil rights movement.

Overall, Occupation 101 serves as a powerful resource for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The film is informative, balanced, and emotionally impactful. It is a sobering reminder of the ongoing human rights violations that are taking place in Palestine and the urgent need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

In conclusion, Occupation 101 is an eye-opening film that exposes the harsh realities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. It provides a thorough analysis of the conflict's history, as well as its current situation, and presents a balanced perspective on the two sides of the conflict. Through personal stories, the filmmakers humanize the conflict, making it difficult for viewers to remain indifferent. They make a compelling case for the urgency of the situation and highlight the efforts of those working towards a peaceful resolution. The movie is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the conflict and advocating for peace.

Occupation 101 is a 2006 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 30 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.1.