Blood Diamond

Following his grand performance in Martin Scorsese's The Departed, Leonardo DiCaprio shows he is one of the finest young actors in the film industry today. As a diamond smuggler, Denny Archer (DiCaprio), finds he is in a difficult situation when his country is being overrun by rebel forces. Along the way, he makes an aquaintance with Solomon Vandy (Djimon Hounsou), who has been captured by the rebels and is forced to mine for diamonds. Vandy's family is also captured. Together, the two go on a quest to find Vandy's family as well as a priceless diamond that Vandy discovers while mining. Jennifer Connelly stars as a journalist who is attempting to uncover the diamond smuggling industry and advocate change.

The film works well on two fronts. First, the film functions as a thriller. Archer and Vandy are constantly avoiding enemies on their quest to ensure the freedom of Vandy's family. Second, the film has what all Oscar caliber films have - good acting, a great story, and fine editing. Clocking in at just under 2 1/2 hours, the film flows smoothly as it weaves together all of the different stories.

Ever since I saw DiCaprio in Gangs of New York, I realized that he is the best actor of his generation. He is the most versatile actor in the industry today, save for Philip Seymour Hoffman. Donning a South African accent, DiCaprio almost loses himself in the role that could earn him another Oscar nomination (and maybe win?). A.