Frustrating and moving, though not in equal measure. In an attempt to juggle dense concerns - including conflict resources, (neo)colonial aftershocks, and the neutered efforts of Western actors - Blood Diamond ultimately centres white naval-gazing. Whether it's African-born nasties like Danny Archer or blinkered allies like Maddy Bowen, their identity crises become the core.
Which was maddening for me, personally, to navigate. Being a white South African, I understand contending with an internal labyrinth of conflicting forces and trying to…