Educational Media Reviews Online

Asier and I is promoted as a film about two childhood friends who grow apart due to the political turmoil of the Basque conflict of the 1980s. Aitor, the film director, seeks to analyze why Asier accepted the use of violence and terrorism as a legitimate means to respond to the tensions over independence; more pointedly he seeks to determine whether terroristic extremism in political contexts become such a fundamental part of identity as to destroy the friendship they once shared. Aitor begins by seeking to explain vital background of the politics that surrounded the lives of these two childhood friends. Although this background is important to understanding the primary aims of the film there are some 13 minutes that are belabored and droll where Aitor uses screen shots of his friends and acquaintances to make a straightforward point about how they viewed the Bosque struggle for independence and individuality. By the time this scene is shot you are either wanting to move on or you have moved on. Nonetheless, the film is very well shot and most scenes are captivating as Aitor clearly uses his talent as an actor and director to create moments of happiness, sadness, inquiry and comic relief within the heart of the viewer.

Perhaps a vital concern for the director is whether he too is more like Asier than he cares to think. Perhaps had his drive for acting and directing in film not been so strong, and his move to Spain delayed he too would have taken the path to terrorism. In this light the film seems an attempt at exploring self-identity. One point of value is that violence and terror is not the only means by which activists may respond to political oppression. Activists may incorporate many talents to help bring political change while promoting friendship and socially positive relationships among people. Aitor therefore serves as an example of how his own unique case is also one of activism through media.

In light of the increase in political terrorism in our world today this film is particularly relevant to several subject areas. Students, faculty, and citizens interested in how terrorism and violence may be internalized and become an accepted way of responding to the need for political change may find this film a beneficial part of their discussion. Moreover, the case of Asier and Aitor serve as valuable inspiration in helping to resolve identity in pro social ways.

*Strong language advisory