Golda – REVIEW

This biographical drama details the actions taken during the Yom Kippur War in 1973 by Golda Meir, an Israeli politician who served as the 4^th prime minister of Israel.

The war was fought for 19 days between October 6 and 25 and involved Israel and a coalition of Arab States led by Syria and Egypt.

The movie commences with Meir testifying at the Agranat Commission. An evaluation had to be made whether the decisions she made concerning the strategic planning for combat were justified.

Once Meir’s testimonial commences, the story unfolds via flashbacks. “We’ve got problems with our neighbours again,” she utters, and audiences are there throughout all the strategic planning, conferences, and the politics behind the scenes.

From day 1 through day 19, the casualty list builds and so does Meir’s anxiety, which she treats solely with coffee and cigarettes. “Let’s teach our enemies a lesson they will never forget!” she bravely announces – but did she make all the right decisions or did the action she take cost thousands of lives? Should she be cleared of any wrong doings?

This is perfect viewing for war movie enthusiasts who want to see what goes on behind the battlefield – the strategies and planning involved which ultimately may decide the fate of a nation.

Highlighted are Meir’s leadership qualities which were meticulously examined at the commission hearing. She was considered to be a hard woman, but her compassion and emotion filtered through as Israel’s potential destruction was looming.

Helen Mirren delivers a career high performance and her transformation as Meir is astonishing. The film’s Oscar nomination for Best Makeup and Hairstyling was highly justified and came as no surprise.

Viewers who are expecting ample war action may be disappointed as most of these scenes are from archival footage taken during the actual war. There may also be grumbles from select audiences about the slow pacing and the enormous amount of war talk that needs to be absorbed and comprehended.

However, what must be emphasized is that this is a performance driven movie – you will believe that you’re watching the real Golda Meir at work trying to save Israel from complete devastation, owing to Mirren’s impeccable performance.

Seemingly a history lesson, this movie should do good business in the art house circuit. It begs to be watched by all audiences, notably because of the current relatable events around the world and the devastating impact they’re having on innocent communities.

Last word: This is just one of endless war-based movies, viewed upon as a cautionary tale, which highlights that humanity has learnt nothing from the past horrors and atrocities of war…

★★★1/2

In Cinemas May 2