The Angel

Review by Paula L. Reynal

The Short:

This spy-thriller depicts the story of Ashraf Marwan, the son-in-law of Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser, and how he became an influential advisor to President Anwar Sadat and a Mossad informant. 

The Long:

Ariel Vromen’s film, which is based on Uri-Bar Joseph’s book titled The Angel: The Egyptian Spy Who Saved Israel, does a marvelous job at showcasing how an individual might grapple with the monumental decision regarding the betrayal of one’s country. Throughout the movie, the viewers get a glimpse at the possible motivations that Ashraf Marwan might have had to act the way he did. In doing so, Vromen showcases the intricacies of the gray areas of morality as well as the intersectionality of individuals. The film depicts Marwan as a student, a father, a spy, and so much more. 

The Angel does a marvelous job at setting the stage for those who might be unfamiliar with the context in which the events it depicts take place. As more stories are published and documents are released regarding this time, the troubles and tribulations of the 1970s are becoming less demystified. On another note, the film also manages to portray the events in a way that does not bore those who might be familiar with the story and the historical figures and events that surround it. 

The watch or not to watch:

Definitely a must watch! Like many of the movies that Netflix has produced in the last few years, The Angel is interesting, engaging and very well made.