Traitor was able to set itself apart from others in its genre through the use of intelligent dialogue and character development. Uncommon for a Hollywood feature, I thought it provided its audience with a decent glimpse of the inner extremities and psyche of individuals who live in a world of religious fanaticism.
What was even more interesting was the conflicts most of the characters had between their religious and personal beliefs. It seemed that most knew that terrorism was wrong, but went along with it anyway out of fear of religious or physical retribution. When you realize that most individuals are very easily manipulated by those with the ability to influence them through misinterpreted religious doctrine, it becomes a very scary thing.
The one person I must applaud before closing is under appreciated actor Don Cheadle. He is outstanding in his role as Samir Horn. His ability to take on the roles of both terrorist and secret agent with such fluidity is amazing, and although you know what side he really is on, you can never really tell where his true loyalty lies even after the credits roll.
Overall, this feature is great for anyone who enjoys a good dialogue and finds politically driven stories fascinating. If your seeking a thriller that is full of action and explosions, I’d probably skip this one. This is the wrong film for you.
Synopsis:
When FBI agent Roy Clayton (Guy Pearce) heads up the investigation into a dangerous international conspiracy, all clues seem to lead back to former U.S. Special Operations officer Samir Horn (Don Cheadle). A mysterious figure with a complex web of international connections, Horn has a knack for emerging on the scene just as a major operation goes down and disappearing before the authorities can question him.
The inter-agency task force looking into the case meets with Carter (Jeff Daniels), an amoral, veteran CIA contractor who seems to have his own agenda, and FBI agent Max Archer (Neal McDonough). The task force links Horn to illicit activities in Yemen, Nice and London, but a tangle of contradictory evidence emerges, forcing Clayton to question whether his quarry is a disaffected former military operative — or something far more complicated.
Obsessed with discovering the truth, Clayton tracks Horn across the globe as the elusive ex-soldier burrows deeper and deeper into a world constructed of secrets and lies.