Documentary

The Feeling of Being Watched (2019): Cast & Ratings

Name: The Feeling of Being Watched
Genre: Documentary
Released: 2019-06-21
Duration: 1 h 26 min
Cast: Assia Boundaoui, Monica Eva Foster, Christina Abraham, Daron Hagen, Iman Boundaoui

The Feeling of Being Watched (2019) movie poster

The Feeling of Being Watched is a 2019 documentary starring Assia Boundaoui, Monica Eva Foster and Christina Abraham. It runs 1 hour 26 minutes. Critics gave it 94% on Rotten Tomatoes and 79 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 7.1/10.

IMDb rating: 7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 94%
Echo Score: 80
Metascore: 79

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Watch the trailer

Released: June 21, 2019
Runtime: 1h 26m (86 min)
Genre: Documentary
Original language: English
After the credits: No No extra scene

The story

What Is The Feeling of Being Watched About?

The premise of The Feeling of Being Watched without spoilers.

In Bridgeview, Illinois, journalist Assia Boundaoui investigates the FBI’s controversial surveillance of the Arab Muslim community. Through interviews with neighbors and community leaders, she reveals the impact of constant scrutiny on their daily lives and the pervasive sense of mistrust it fosters. The documentary explores the complexities of the situation and the challenges faced by a close-knit community grappling with government oversight.

The Feeling of Being Watched Themes & Keywords

· 50 tags

reference to michel foucault
surveillance
panopticon
counter terrorism
arab american
muslim american
2000s
chicago illinois
paranoia
self censorship
fear
infiltration

+38 more

surveillance camera
wiretapping
fbi surveillance
pretext
national security
palestinian american
forced confession
exoneration
false charge
archive footage
propaganda
freedom of information act
stonewalling
islamophobia
1990s
uncertainty
reference to donald trump
reference to september 11 2001
pre september 11 2001
post september 11 2001
fbi investigation
retaliation
covert operation
chicago police
law enforcement
denial
subterfuge
sousveillance
right to privacy
racial profiling
violation of privacy
confidential informant
electronic surveillance
cointelpro
presumption of guilt
hidden camera
covert surveillance
government surveillance

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Cast & crew

The Feeling of Being Watched Cast & Characters

Assia Boundaoui leads the cast, with Monica Eva Foster as Assia Boundaoui's Attorney and Christina Abraham.

Assia Boundaoui as themselves
Monica Eva Foster as Assia Boundaoui's Attorney
Christina Abraham as themselves
Daron Hagen as Judge Thomas Durkin

Also Starring in The Feeling of Being Watched

· 7 more

Iman Boundaoui Themselves
Jen Marlowe Government Attorney
Nouha Boundaoui Themselves
Oussama Boundaoui Themselves
Rabia Boundaoui Themselves
Sohib Boundaoui Themselves
Daniah Elharezi

Ratings

The Feeling of Being Watched Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave The Feeling of Being Watched 94% on Rotten Tomatoes and 79 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 7.1/10. Our Echo Score gives it 80/100, strongest in art & craft (85) and weakest in rewatch factor (65).

80 /100

The Feeling of Being Watched Echo Score Breakdown

The Feeling of Being Watched excels in presenting a measured first-person investigation into systematic surveillance. Critics praise its thorough contextualization and balanced pacing, noting how the director integrates personal narrative with historical analysis. The documentary’s emphasis on community activism and psychological depth enriches its examination of power dynamics. While its tone remains restrained, the film consistently engages and informs. Overall, it delivers a compelling exploration of paranoia and truth in American society.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

Art & Craft 85

In terms of direction and cinematography, the documentary employs a clear, focused visual style that supports its thematic urgency. The first-person camera work feels controlled and purposeful, while editing transitions effectively contextualize archival materials. Production design remains understated yet coherent, reinforcing the film’s investigatory tone. Overall, the visual craftsmanship enhances the narrative.
Character & Emotion 80

In terms of character depth and emotional resonance, the film centers on a singular personal journey that conveys both determination and vulnerability. The director’s first-person narration establishes an intimate connection, and subjects’ testimonies deepen the emotional impact. Performances feel authentic without embellishment, reflecting genuine communal bonds. Ultimately, the documentary’s human focus underscores its thematic import.
Story & Flow 85

In terms of plot coherence and engagement, the documentary maintains a logical structure, guiding viewers from personal recollections to broader historical analysis. Measured pacing allows revelations to unfold naturally, and archival interludes complement the narrative without distraction. The balance between investigative segments and reflective moments sustains interest. As a result, the story arc feels cohesive and compelling.
Sensory Experience 70

In terms of sensory experience, the film employs a restrained sound design that foregrounds ambient noises and interview dialogue. The musical score is subdued, serving to underscore moments of tension without overt dramatization. Visually, the color palette remains muted, reinforcing the investigative mood. Overall, the sensory elements work in concert to support the documentary’s tone.
Rewatch Factor 65

In terms of rewatch value, the documentary’s informational depth and historical context offer ongoing relevance for viewers interested in surveillance issues. Its thorough research and methodical pacing may occasion additional viewings for deeper analysis. However, the restrained narrative style may limit casual repeat viewing. Overall, the film maintains a steady appeal for audiences seeking substantive content.