We saw The Kingdom two weeks ago, but I forgot to write it up. The movie was part action schlock and part cultural drama. The thing is, the two parts work together very well. More importantly, the movie has spawned several deep and long conversations about the film, about Saudi Arabia, and the role of film in helping Americans relate to the Middle East. Any time a film can do that, I consider it worth seeing.

A unique feature of the film is the quick history of Saudi Arabia presented at the start of the film. In about 3 minutes, they cover the creation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the influence of outsiders, and the discovery of oil. Good stuff.

Worth seeing in the theater and a don’t miss if you wait until rental.