Bordering on Bad Behavior

Bordering on Bad Behavior is a 2014 film that masterfully treads the fine line between comedy and drama while deftly throwing in elements of action that further heighten the cinematic experience. Directed by Jac Mulder and featuring standout performances by Tom Sizemore, Oz Zehavi, and Bernard Curry, the film is a profound exploration of human nature, border disputes, and love, with a generous dose of humor.

The plot takes off within the confines of an isolated Communications Surveillance Station situated in the bleak backcountry of the Middle East, setting a perfect stage for the trio's strained interaction. The station, lacking even basic amenities like internet and TV, serves as the microcosm of the real world with all its problems and conflicts. The close quarters only serve to accentuate the tension and heighten the drama.

Acclaimed actor Tom Sizemore portrays Bob, an American serviceman dispatched to this remote outpost for a six-month stint. Bob is a rough-edged yet likable veteran who has his fair share of personal demons and is trying to right some wrongs that have stemmed from a history of bad decisions. His character is a perfect counterpoint to the other characters, each of whom carries a unique backstory.

Israeli actor Oz Zehavi plays Ari, a wise-cracking Israeli soldier whose sharp tongue and sharper wit tend to push buttons. Intense yet amiable, Ari is a character viewers will find hard to forget.

Australian actor Bernard Curry imbues Bassam, an Arab intel analyst, with charming ambiguity. Bassam is a man of convictions who doesn't refrain from standing his ground, yet he is not devoid of warmth and esprit.

As a seeming twist of fate throws Bob, Ari, and Bassam together in the isolated military outpost, their cultural and political differences soon come to the forefront, leading to heated debates and at times almost comical arguments. As the tension mounts, so does the mutual disrespect, and the three men find themselves bordering on bad behavior.

Beyond the interpersonal dynamics, the film shines a light on larger themes like political ideologies, cultural differences, and historical disputes. The three characters embody the ethos of their respective nations and bring forth their inherent biases, which are often fueled by lack of understanding and communication.

What makes Bordering on Bad Behavior stands out, however, is the fact that in the midst of all this conflict, it manages to maintain its underlying humor intact. The film has a heart and it beats strongly, disseminating its message of peace, tolerance, and mutual understanding in the most unorthodox way imaginable.

Another potent aspect of the film lies in its ability to delve into the personal lives and struggles of each protagonist. Their individual stories, full of unseen challenges and histories of conflict, give a human face to the political and cultural issues raised in the movie. Through their personal quests for redemption and absolution, the film touches on universal human experiences of guilt, regret, and hope.

The screenplay, penned by director Jac Mulder and Ziggy Darwish, is smart, eloquent, and at times even philosophical. The dialogues are crisp, laced with humor and deep-seated emotions. They hit hard on all fronts, forcing the viewers to at once laugh and think.

On the technical front, the cinematography, sound design, and editing work in perfect harmony to bring the claustrophobic setting to life. The isolated communication station, the barren desert, and the ambient sounds play a significant part in setting up the theatrical, almost surreal atmosphere of the film. The visual and visceral experience of the setup adds more depth to the story.

Mulder's fresh, creative approach to storytelling is evident in every frame of Bordering on Bad Behavior. The director’s strength lies in his ability to expertly infuse humor into the narrative without losing sight of the seriousness of the themes at hand.

The performances of the three actors - Sizemore, Zehavi, and Curry are praiseworthy. Their chemistry is palpable as they manage to portray a complex range of emotions while keeping the essence of their characters intact.

In the end, Bordering on Bad Behavior stands as a testament to the transformative power of humor and camaraderie in overcoming the deep-seated prejudices and misunderstandings that persist in our world. This unlikely fusion of sharp comedy and poignant drama is bound to leave viewers with a newfound sense of empathy towards those they share this world with.