Watch Meeting Resistance

Meeting Resistance is a gripping documentary from 2007 that sheds light on Iraq's insurgency from the point of view of the insurgents. It examines the complex and varied motivations driving Iraqis to resist the US-led occupation, offering a unique perspective that is often missing from mainstream media coverage. Through a series of interviews with militants, former Baathists, and ordinary citizens, Meeting Resistance delves into the psychological and social factors driving Iraq's resistance. The film also examines the tactics used by the insurgents, using footage of attacks and bombings to illustrate their methods.

What sets Meeting Resistance apart from other documentaries on the war in Iraq is its focus on the people who are fighting against US and coalition forces. In doing so, it challenges the simplistic narrative of good versus evil that dominates much of the media coverage of the war. Instead, the film presents a nuanced and empathetic portrayal of the insurgents and their struggle.

The film opens with a series of chilling images of roadside bombs exploding and American soldiers being attacked. These scenes are interspersed with interviews with Iraqis describing the occupation as a "nightmare" and expressing their anger at the US presence in their country. It quickly becomes clear that the film is taking a very different approach to the conflict than what we're used to seeing in the mainstream media.

The bulk of the film consists of interviews with insurgents and ordinary Iraqis who support their cause. We hear from a wide range of people, from former Baathists who were purged from the government after the invasion to young Shia men who have taken up arms against the occupation. Their stories are compelling and complex, offering a glimpse into the lives of people who are often portrayed as mindless terrorists in the media.

While many of the interviews are conducted in shadow or with distorted voices to protect the identity of the interviewees, the film is still able to convey a sense of intimacy and immediacy. We feel as though we are sitting in the room with these people as they tell their stories, and the effect is powerful.

The film also does an excellent job of contextualizing the insurgency, examining the various historical, social, and religious factors that have contributed to its development. We learn about the Baathist regime that ruled Iraq for decades, and about the sectarian divides that emerged after the invasion. Through these interviews, we gain a greater understanding of the complex web of factors driving Iraq's resistance.

The filmmakers have also done an impressive job of gathering footage of insurgent attacks, which helps to illustrate the tactics used by the resistance. While these scenes are undoubtedly difficult to watch, they are crucial to understanding the reality of the conflict in Iraq.

Overall, Meeting Resistance is a powerful and thought-provoking documentary that offers a rare glimpse into the world of Iraq's resistance. It challenges our assumptions about the conflict, and provides a complicated and nuanced view of the motivations and tactics of those fighting against the occupation. It's a must-see for anyone interested in the war in Iraq and the complexities of insurgency warfare.