As of 09:41 AM +07 on Monday, July 21, 2025, Netflix viewers are captivated by a tense political thriller that pits two powerhouse actors, Jodie Foster and Benedict Cumberbatch, against each other in a gripping narrative. The film, The Mauritanian, originally released in 2021, has recently surged in popularity on the streaming platform, drawing renewed attention for its compelling performances and provocative storyline. Directed by Kevin Macdonald and based on Mohamedou Ould Slahi’s memoir Guantánamo Diary, this legal drama explores the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks, blending real-life events with a thrilling examination of justice and morality. With Foster and Cumberbatch leading the cast, the film offers a rare on-screen showdown, making it a must-watch for fans of political intrigue and stellar acting. This article delves into the film’s content, the standout performances of Foster and Cumberbatch, and the elements that have fueled its resurgence on Netflix.
Content: A Riveting Tale of Justice and Controversy
The Mauritanian unfolds against the backdrop of the early 2000s, following the United States’ response to the September 11 attacks. The story centers on Mohamedou Ould Slahi (Tahar Rahim), a Mauritanian man detained in Guantanamo Bay without charge for over a decade, accused of aiding the 9/11 hijackers based on flimsy evidence. The narrative splits into two perspectives: the defense led by Nancy Hollander (Jodie Foster), a determined attorney, and the prosecution headed by Lt. Colonel Stuart Couch (Benedict Cumberbatch), a military prosecutor seeking closure for a personal loss.
The film opens with Slahi’s arrest in Mauritania, quickly jumping to 2005 when Hollander, alongside her associate Teri Duncan (Shailene Woodley), takes on his case. Their investigation uncovers a web of torture and coerced confessions, challenging the U.S. government’s narrative. Simultaneously, Couch, motivated by the death of a friend on one of the hijacked planes, initially pushes for Slahi’s conviction but begins to question the evidence as inconsistencies emerge. The plot builds through courtroom battles and prison interrogations, culminating in a habeas corpus hearing that forces the government to justify Slahi’s detention or release him.
The film’s 129-minute runtime is marked by a stark, muted visual style, courtesy of cinematographer Alwin H. Kuchler, which mirrors the bleakness of Guantanamo. The score by Tom Hodge and Chris Reid heightens the tension, while the screenplay by M.B. Traven, Rory Haines, and Sohrab Noshirvani balances legal proceedings with personal stakes. Themes of human rights, governmental overreach, and the psychological toll of imprisonment dominate, though some critics argue the narrative leans toward a one-sided portrayal of American policy. With an 83% Rotten Tomatoes score and a 65/100 Metacritic rating, The Mauritanian has been praised for its intensity but critiqued for lacking nuance, grossing $7.7 million against a $14 million budget. Its recent Netflix prominence reflects a growing appetite for politically charged dramas.
Jodie Foster’s Performance: A Steadfast Champion of Justice
Jodie Foster’s portrayal of Nancy Hollander is a tour de force, showcasing her ability to embody a principled yet flawed character. At 58 during filming, Foster brings a seasoned intensity to the role, drawing from her Oscar-winning performances in The Accused and The Silence of the Lambs. Hollander is depicted as a tenacious lawyer willing to risk her reputation to defend Slahi, navigating classified documents and government resistance with a steely resolve. Foster’s performance shines in scenes where she confronts bureaucratic stonewalling, her clipped delivery and piercing gaze conveying both frustration and determination.
A standout moment occurs during a tense meeting with military officials, where Foster’s Hollander challenges the legality of Slahi’s detention with a controlled fury that borders on righteous anger. Her chemistry with Woodley’s Teri adds a layer of mentorship, while her interactions with Slahi—marked by moments of empathy—humanize the legal struggle. Critics have hailed her as “excellent” and “inspiring,” with The Hindu noting she “elevates the legal drama to a whole new level.” However, some, like Roger Ebert’s review, felt her character lacked depth, serving more as a vehicle for the plot than a fully realized person.
Foster’s preparation involved extensive research into Hollander’s real-life approach, including consulting with the attorney herself. In a 2021 interview, she described the role as a chance to explore “the moral complexity of defending the indefensible,” reflecting her interest in challenging narratives. Her Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actress underscored the impact, though the film’s mixed reception limited its awards haul. On Netflix, her performance has reignited discussions about her versatility, contrasting her recent comedic turn in Nim’s Island with this gritty portrayal.
Benedict Cumberbatch’s Performance: A Moral Reckoning
Benedict Cumberbatch, at 44 during filming, delivers a nuanced performance as Stuart Couch, a military prosecutor whose journey mirrors the film’s thematic shift. Known for Sherlock and Doctor Strange, Cumberbatch transforms into a Southern-accented officer driven by personal grief, his friend’s death in the 9/11 attacks fueling his initial zeal. His portrayal begins with a stereotypical macho demeanor, but a pivotal scene—where he reviews torture logs and questions his superiors—reveals a crisis of conscience that redefines his character.
Cumberbatch’s strength lies in his ability to convey internal conflict, particularly in a parking lot confrontation where he challenges a colleague’s ethics. His accent work, while initially shaky, earned praise for authenticity after meeting the real Couch, as director Macdonald noted. Variety called his performance “impressive,” highlighting how he subverts the expected villain role into a figure of reluctant redemption. However, Vulture critiqued the script for not fully exploring Couch’s arc, leaving Cumberbatch to carry the weight alone.
His dynamic with Foster’s Hollander is electric, their courtroom exchanges crackling with ideological tension. Cumberbatch’s preparation included military consultations, adding realism to his portrayal. The role earned him a SAG Award nomination, though some felt his screen time was overshadowed by Rahim’s central performance. On Netflix, his ability to pivot from antagonist to ally has drawn fresh admiration, reinforcing his reputation as a versatile actor.
The Showdown: Foster vs. Cumberbatch
The face-off between Foster and Cumberbatch is the film’s emotional and dramatic core, pitting Hollander’s unwavering advocacy against Couch’s evolving skepticism. Their interactions, though limited, are charged with opposing worldviews—her focus on individual rights clashing with his initial loyalty to national security. A key scene in the courtroom, where Hollander’s evidence undermines Couch’s case, showcases their acting prowess, with Foster’s precision contrasting Cumberbatch’s restrained anguish.
This dynamic reflects the film’s broader tension between justice and authority, a theme amplified by their real-life stature. Foster’s experience as a director (Little Man Tate) and Cumberbatch’s theatrical roots (Hamlet) enrich their performances, creating a battle of intellects that transcends the screen. Fans on platforms like X have noted this clash as a highlight, with some calling it “a masterclass in acting duels,” though the film’s pacing has been a point of contention.
Reception and Resurgence on Netflix
The Mauritanian initially struggled at the box office due to the 2021 pandemic, but its Netflix availability in 2025 has sparked a resurgence. The 83% Rotten Tomatoes audience score and positive X posts—“underrated gem” and “Foster and Cumberbatch at their best”—reflect renewed interest. Critics remain divided, with Tatler calling it “excellent” and Roger Ebert deeming it “superficial,” but the streaming platform’s algorithm has pushed it to trending status.
The film’s legacy lies in its timely relevance, echoing ongoing debates about Guantanamo and post-9/11 policies. Its cast-driven appeal, bolstered by Foster and Cumberbatch, ensures its staying power, with potential for a follow-up or related project given the directors’ interest in human rights narratives. The Netflix boost suggests a growing appetite for politically charged thrillers, positioning The Mauritanian as a sleeper hit.
Conclusion
The Mauritanian offers a compelling political thriller where Jodie Foster and Benedict Cumberbatch deliver standout performances, facing off in a battle of justice and conscience. The content, rooted in Slahi’s real-life ordeal, combines legal drama with moral ambiguity, enhanced by the actors’ chemistry and the directors’ vision. Its resurgence on Netflix in 2025 underscores its enduring appeal, making it a must-watch for those intrigued by the intersection of law, ethics, and human resilience. As Foster and Cumberbatch continue to captivate, this film stands as a testament to their enduring talent and the power of a well-told story.
