Storyline

Fundamentalist Islam and neo-conservatism seem to be at odds, but filmmaker Adam Curtis asserts that the two have more in common than one might think. In this documentary, Curtis compares the outlooks of American academic Leo Strauss and Egyptian civil servant Sayyid Qutb, each of whom rebelled against American individualism to form their respective movements. Their shared message is that fear unites, be it during the Cold War or today's War on Terror.

Plot Keywords

philosopher, engineer, civil servant, rousing, passionate, shocking, disheartening, afghanistan, egypt, united states, england, terrorism, fear, nationalism, conservatism, 9/11 attacks, cold war, discovery, 2000s

Short Review

A richly rewarding film because it treats its audience as adults capable of following complex arguments.

Trailer

Streaming Service

1. Amazon Video : Rent from $1.99, Or $0.00 with a Prime membership