Educational Media Reviews Online

Captured in 2008 and convicted in 2011 Viktor Bout, a global arms dealer, is considered one of the most dangerous men on the face of the earth. Since then his story has inspired video games and one major film, Lord of War (2006) starring Nicholas Cage. His case has led to much controversy. Is he a deadly, heartless and indifferent profiteer of death or a man who in a time of dramatic change following the demise of the Soviet Union simply a good business person and family man who followed a skewed capitalistic pathway in seeking economic success?

The Notorious Mr. Bout is a highly entertaining film. However, the true purpose in my opinion is either to paint a picture of a good man caught in conspiracy or a good man who due to pathways in life is drawn into a situation where he becomes involved in crime. Viewers should be aware that the film seems to have at least one goal in creating a case that Victor Bout a/k/a The Merchant of Death was wrongfully entrapped and convicted of his crime(s). The directors combine news footage, interviews and home video shot by the Bout family in weaving the story of Viktor Bout and his journey through life. Family interviews depict Bout as a very kind family man who has been victimized by the society he tried to serve. Once you are wary of this consideration it is easy to immerse one’s self into the film and enjoy the documentary’s photography, home video, dialogue and scenes.

The Notorious Mr. Bout offers much for viewers to consider. It would be excellent for sociology, psychology and criminal justice classes to view and discuss the social effects and causes of crime as well as the individual reasons people choose crime and how they manage their antisocial identity as they navigate daily life. The film’s website provides a trailer, several means for viewing the film including purchase of a DVD, streaming online and a link for requesting a screening.