Watch My Enemy My Brother

My Enemy My Brother is a heart-wrenching documentary film that tells the story of two former enemies, Zahed and Najah. The two men were on opposite sides of the Iran-Iraq War during the 1980s, but their paths crossed in a moment that would change their lives forever. The film follows the journey of their once bitter feud to an unexpected friendship and bond of brotherhood, after a chance encounter in Canada 20 years later.

The film starts with the two men recounting their experiences during the Iran-Iraq War, which saw one million people killed and many more injured. We hear about Zahed, who joined the Iranian army at the age of 13, and Najah, who was a soldier in Saddam Hussein's army. Both speak of their visceral hatred for each other at the time, as they were both fighting for different sides and against each other.

We then see footage of their meeting in Canada, two decades after the war ended. Zahed came across Najah on the street, homeless and in need of help. He invited Najah into his home, offering him food and a place to stay. This was the first step towards a remarkable journey of forgiveness and redemption that the men embark on.

The film then delves into the backstories of Zahed and Najah, highlighting their struggles as immigrants in Canada. We hear about Najah's medical issues, which he sustained from the war, and the financial hardships he faces. Zahed's own struggles, including his mental health issues and his father's rejection, are also explored. These stories give the audience a deeper understanding of the men and their experiences, and serve as a reminder of the trauma that lingers long after the conflict ends.

Throughout the film, we hear testimonials from family members, friends, and other soldiers who served in the same war. They provide insights into the complex nature of the war, and how it affected not just those who fought in it, but also the families and friends of those soldiers. Their stories demonstrate the universality of trauma, regardless of which side one was on.

The most powerful aspect of this film is the relationship that blossoms between Zahed and Najah. Through a series of flashbacks and personal anecdotes, we see the transformation that occurs in both men as they navigate their complicated history. At first, there is a palpable tension between them, but gradually, they start to connect on a deeper level. They learn about each other's families and interests, and more importantly, they learn to listen to and empathize with each other.

The film features beautiful cinematography, with stunning shots of Vancouver and the surrounding areas. Footage from the war is also used, but it is never gratuitous or exploitative. Instead, it serves to underscore the horrors of war and the impact it has on those who fight in it.

Overall, My Enemy My Brother is a deeply moving film that highlights the transformative power of forgiveness and reconciliation. The story of Zahed and Najah shows that even the most bitter of enemies can overcome their differences and become friends. The film is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and a reminder that compassion and empathy can help us heal even the deepest wounds.

My Enemy My Brother is a 2015 documentary with a runtime of 17 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 8.3.