Redacted 2007

Drama

Crime

War

Box Office

$785K

Runtime

90 min

Language

English

Directed by

Brian De Palma

Made by

Magnolia Pictures

Test your knowledge of Redacted with our quiz!

Plot Summary

Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Redacted (2007). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.

This harrowing film delves into the heartbreaking real-life incident involving the violent rape and murder of a 14-year-old Iraqi girl at the hands of U.S. soldiers, with stark, shocking visuals that may deeply affect viewers.

Inspired by one of the gravest atrocities committed by American military personnel in Iraq post-2003 invasion, the film does not hold back on portraying the sheer brutality of the war, aiming to convey a powerful message. Utilizing an intentionally episodic structure, Redacted weaves together various narratives of the Iraq war, seemingly from different perspectives.

One segment, crafted by a French filmmaker, illustrates U.S. soldiers patrolling checkpoints, while another highlights a crucial blunder made by a superior officer dealing with hazardous waste left on the roadside, which culminates in a disastrous explosion. The film gradually builds to the tragic climax involving the beautiful young girl, who is uncovered by troops during a raid on an Iraqi residence, as they seek evidence for their mission.

On a fateful night, the drunken, morally compromised U.S. soldiers engage in a jarring discussion about returning for the “skank” they previously encountered during the raid. This leads to a grim turn of events when one soldier, equipped with a camera on his helmet, records the horrific act of the girl’s assault.

The narrative then shifts focus to the repercussions faced by the military as they enact justice against the perpetrators. In a haunting final scene, a soldier associated with the criminals candidly recounts an unforgettable war story, one that encapsulates the plundering and tragic death of the Iraqi girl, a tale that will linger with him forever.

Timeline

Follow the complete movie timeline of Redacted (2007) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.

The Invasion

The film opens with the backdrop of the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, setting the stage for the subsequent exploration of the chaos and violence that ensued. This pivotal moment is crucial to understanding the conflicts and moral dilemmas faced by soldiers on the ground.

2003 Iraq

Soldiers on Patrol

A segment features U.S. soldiers patrolling checkpoints, highlighting their interactions with the local population and the increasing tension in the region. This portrayal emphasizes the soldiers' day-to-day experiences and the constant peril they face in a war-torn environment.

Checkpoints in Iraq

Hazardous Waste Incident

One of the soldiers makes a grave error regarding hazardous waste left on the roadside, which leads to a catastrophic explosion. This blunder significantly escalates the already volatile situation, further illustrating the dangers of warfare and negligence.

Roadside in Iraq

The Raid Begins

During a military raid on an Iraqi residence, the soldiers discover a young girl, whose life will soon be tragically altered. This moment marks a turning point in the narrative, as the girl unknowingly steps into a nightmare driven by the soldiers' misguided judgment.

Iraqi residence

The Soldiers' Discussion

On a fateful night, a group of intoxicated soldiers engages in a disturbing conversation about returning for the girl they previously encountered. This conversation exemplifies the moral decay and desensitization among the troops in the face of their actions during the war.

Night

The Assault

The soldiers, driven by their depraved decision-making, commit a horrific act against the young girl. One of them records the assault with a camera mounted on his helmet, capturing the atrocity that unfolds in front of them—a striking reminder of the inhumanity of war.

Iraqi residence

Aftermath of the Attack

Following the assault, the film depicts the chaos and shock that ripple through the ranks of the military. The incident forces the soldiers and their superiors to confront the consequences of their actions, leading to a complicated investigation and discussion of justice.

Seeking Justice

As the military seeks to address the crimes committed by the soldiers, the narrative examines the complexities of accountability in wartime. The process of enacting justice unfolds amidst tensions between covering up the incident and the necessity for repercussions.

A Soldier's Reflection

In a haunting final scene, one soldier linked to the perpetrators candidly recounts the events that led to the tragic death of the Iraqi girl. His story encapsulates the horror and guilt that accompany the soldiers' actions, leaving a lasting impact on his psyche.

Message of the Film

The film closes with a powerful message about the brutality of war and its far-reaching effects on both the victims and the perpetrators. It serves as a stark reminder of the moral implications of military actions and the tragedies that arise from combat.

Characters

Explore all characters from Redacted (2007). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.

Unknown Soldier

The soldiers in the film represent a disturbing blend of camaraderie and moral conflict, often engaging in conversations that reflect their desensitization to violence. One particular soldier is depicted as morally compromised, recording horrific acts while grappling with the consequences of his actions. They embody the complexities of military service during troubled times.

🪖 Soldier 💔 Trauma

Setting

Learn where and when Redacted (2007) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.

Time period

Post-2003 Invasion

The movie's events take place in the years following the U.S. invasion of Iraq, a period marked by violence and civil unrest. This time saw numerous atrocities committed amid military operations, raising critical questions about the ethics of warfare and its impact on innocent lives. The film captures a sense of disillusionment and moral decay in the military.

Location

Iraq

Iraq, particularly in the aftermath of the 2003 invasion, serves as a backdrop for this intense narrative. The country is depicted as a war-torn landscape where the realities of military operations weave into the lives of vulnerable civilians. It is known for its complexity and the harsh consequences of foreign intervention during this tumultuous time.

🇮🇶 Iraq 🎥 War Zone

Themes

Discover the main themes in Redacted (2007). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.

💔

Tragedy

The theme of tragedy is central to *Redacted*, as it portrays the heartbreaking loss of life and the impact of war on innocent civilians. The film serves as a harrowing reminder of the consequences of violence and the often-overlooked human cost of military operations. It challenges viewers to confront the grim realities of conflict and its long-term effects.

⚖️

Justice

The quest for justice is a pivotal theme, reflected in the film's depiction of the repercussions faced by those involved in the girl's tragic death. It raises questions about accountability, military discipline, and the failure to protect innocent lives. The narrative illustrates the complicated pursuit of justice amid the chaos of war.

🎥

Documentary Style

Utilizing an episodic structure that mimics documentary storytelling, the film provides a multifaceted perspective on the Iraq War. This approach aims to immerse viewers in the experiences of various characters, from soldiers to civilians, highlighting the diverse narratives that inhabit the conflict. The blend of fiction and reality enhances the emotional impact of the story.

Movies with Similar Twists and Themes

Uncover films that echo the narrative beats, emotional arcs, or dramatic twists of the one you're exploring. These recommendations are handpicked based on story depth, thematic resonance, and spoiler-worthy moments — perfect for fans who crave more of the same intrigue.