The tensions in the Middle East have been flaring and abating for years and years. They seem to be a permanent fixture on the evening news decade after decade. With a land that is so holy to three of the world's major religions, way is there so many guns and so little forgiveness? "Blood and Tears" takes an open-minded look at the conflict interviewing leaders of Israel, Palestine, Militant Palestinian groups, and regular citizens.

As a viewer trying to understand the conflict, I greatly appreciated the inclusion of regular citizens of the region. They're views sincerely help broaden perspectives and fill out what is so often missing from the general perception of the conflict which is usually portrayed through explosions and bullets (and the occasional short-lived peace agreement) on the mass media.

This excellent collection of information serves as an easy to watch summary of the situation. The filmmakers even attempt to package it with a more current feel complete with hip-hop music and quickly-cut open/close and segues. The scrolling captions seem to be randomly timed, however; some cruise too fast to read while others linger.

Still, it's the information here that really matters. Though refreshingly reluctant to take sides regarding geography of the matter, the film has a subtle slant toward peace. After all, its title is taken from the words of Yitzhak Rabin, the late Prime Minister of Israel, "Enough Blood and Tears."

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