The Mauritanian

As a title card solemnly declares this to be a true story, we are transported to the sun-kissed shores of Mauritania in northwest Africa, where Mohamedou Ould Slahi (Tahar Rahim) strolls along the beach in November 2001, just two months after the devastating events of September 11. The tranquil atmosphere is momentarily disrupted as he joins a lively family celebration, complete with vibrant traditional dancing and joyful singing. Amidst the revelry, Mohamedou's friends engage him in conversation about Germany, where he resides, but their banter is interrupted by an ominous whisper from a mysterious individual. Mohamedou excuses himself to confer with a Mauritanian policeman, who imparts a worrying message: since the 9/11 attacks, the Americans are in a state of heightened anxiety and seek his counsel.

Mohamedou's expression turns grave as he agrees to cooperate, but he requests a brief moment to change out of his traditional attire. As he does so, he also takes the opportunity to purge the contacts from his early-2000s cell phone, a discreet move that belies the gravity of the situation. He then asks permission to drive himself to the station, and the policeman grants him this concession, seemingly confident in Mohamedou's eventual return. Meanwhile, Mohamedou's distressed mother is left fretting about her son's impending departure, but he reassures her with a calm, reassuring tone: if they truly intended to detain him, they would not have allowed him to drive himself to the station. As Mohamedou sets off on this uncertain journey, his seemingly ordinary life is about to take an extraordinary and profoundly transformative turn.

As we shift our gaze from the courtroom to the snow-dusted streets of Albuquerque, New Mexico in February 2005, powerhouse lawyer Nancy Hollander (Jodie Foster) slips into the shadows, her attention piqued by a chance encounter with Teri Duncan (Shailene Woodley). Seated behind Teri during a hearing, Nancy requests a copy of her case file, sparking a chain reaction that will soon draw her into the labyrinthine corridors of Guantanamo Bay. The seed of curiosity is sown as Nancy meets with French lawyer Emmanuel (Denis Menochet) over lunch, where he shares the tale of Mohamedou's family, desperate to know the fate of their loved one arrested three years prior. With Emmanuel's words still lingering in her mind, Nancy finds herself entangled in a web of intrigue and deception as she delves deeper into the mysterious case. The revelation that Mohamedou is being held at the infamous Gitmo, accused of orchestrating the 9/11 attacks, only serves to fuel her determination to take on his defense pro bono. Her colleagues are left aghast by this decision, yet Nancy remains resolute, driven by a burning sense of justice and a desire to combat the erosion of due process in the name of national security. As she navigates the complexities of Mohamedou's case, Nancy will require the aid of a translator; serendipitously, Teri Duncan's French proficiency proves to be the perfect catalyst for this unlikely legal partnership. With the stakes higher than ever before, Nancy sets her sights on the daunting task ahead, undaunted by the seemingly insurmountable obstacles that lie in wait.

The scene shifts to a Navy Law Conference in New Orleans, where a gathering of military men converge to deliberate on a pressing matter. Marine Prosecutor Stuart Couch (Benedict Cumberbatch) is suddenly recognized and escorted aside by Colonel Bill Seidel (Corey Johnson), who requests a private audience with the esteemed prosecutor. As they step away from the proceedings, Seidel briefs Couch on a critical new case that has been assigned to his jurisdiction. The colonel explains that the administration is seeking "rough justice" for the enemy combatants detained at Guantanamo Bay, suspected of being involved in the 9/11 attacks. The primary objective is to clear the backlog of cases and ultimately bring justice to the perpetrators, with Osama Bin Laden being a top priority.

As they confer with other officials, Seidel reveals that Couch has been tasked with setting up a war court to prosecute these detainees, with the first case on the docket belonging to Mohamedou. According to intelligence, this individual fought alongside Al-Qaida in the 1990s and later recruited for them in Germany, allegedly playing a key role in recruiting the terrorist responsible for piloting the plane that struck the South Tower, claiming the life of Stuart Couch's friend Bruce Taylor (a former Marine co-pilot). This particular case carries significant weight, as it will be the first to seek the death penalty.

As Couch processes this information, his emotional connection to the tragedy becomes palpable. Seidel tactfully alludes to Couch's personal connection to the victims, mentioning that he was friends with someone who lost their life on 9/11. The mention of Bruce Taylor's name serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of terrorism and the human toll it takes.

With his understanding of the situation clear, Stuart Couch inquires about the timeline for commencing proceedings against Mohamedou, signaling his commitment to upholding justice while still grappling with the weighty emotions associated with this case.

As Nancy ( actress's name) and Teri (actress's name) arrive at the infamous Guantanamo prison, they're met with a stark reminder of its isolated jurisdiction: the bus driver casually mentions that anyone violating rules on the island can be removed at any time. Undeterred, the two lawyers head to the prison to meet their new client, Mohamedou. After navigating multiple security checkpoints where guards repeatedly express concerns about Mohamedou's potential violence and danger, they finally reach his cell, where he's shackled to the floor.

The initial meeting is a culture shock for Nancy and Teri, as Mohamedou greets them with effusive hugs, leaving them feeling uneasy. However, things take a surprising turn when Mohamedou reveals that he learned English "one word at a time," just like his American lawyers. As they begin discussing their reasons for representing him, Mohamedou's demeanor becomes increasingly guarded, revealing the deep-seated distrust stemming from his prolonged imprisonment without charge.

Nancy explains the Supreme Court's ruling on habeas corpus, emphasizing that the government must provide evidence to justify detaining individuals without trial. Mohamedou is skeptical, pointing out that he's been held for three years without being charged and subjected to relentless interrogation – 18 hours a day. He recounts his shocking ordeal, including being kidnapped in Jordan, imprisoned in Afghanistan, and eventually brought to Guantanamo in chains.

Mohamedou's pop culture references catch the lawyers off guard, as he mentions watching TV shows like "E Exclamation" (which Teri humorously points out has no audible punctuation). The spark of recognition is short-lived, however, as Mohamedou's tone turns somber, revealing his fear of discussing anything incriminating due to potential surveillance. Nancy suggests he put his concerns in writing, assuring him that anything shared with her would be protected by attorney-client privilege.

Convinced that they can make a difference, Mohamedou agrees to hire the duo as his lawyers and requests them to call a mysterious number – claimed to belong to his mother. As they depart, Mohamedou bids them farewell with an unusual phrase: "See you later, alligators." He instructs them to respond with "In a while, crocodile," leaving Nancy and Teri puzzled but committed to their new client's cause.

As Stu (character) pours over the meticulous details of Mohamedou's life with his team, a complex web of events begins to unfold. A scholarship to study engineering in Germany in 1988 marked the beginning of Mohamedou's journey, which would eventually take him to Afghanistan and into the fold of Al-Qaida. The team's discussion delves deeper, highlighting Mohamedou's connection to Mahfouz, Bin Laden's spiritual advisor, as well as Ramzi bin al-Shibh, dubbed the 20th hijacker, who claims that Mohamedou played a pivotal role in recruiting him and other would-be hijackers in Germany. Stu's coworker dubs Mohamedou the "Al-Qaida Forrest Gump," suggesting an uncanny ability to find himself at the center of significant events. With this narrative thread in hand, Stu instructs his team to meticulously review intelligence reports, ensuring that every detail is thoroughly corroborated against Mohamedou's story.

Meanwhile, Teri finds herself on a poignant phone call with Mohamedou's mother, her words translated through the veil of grief. The somber tone gives way to a meeting between Teri and Nancy in their office, where Nancy emphasizes the importance of separating emotional pleas from the pursuit of justice. In Virginia, they gain access to classified material stored at a secure facility, where Kent (David Fynn) explains the intricacies of handling sensitive information. As they delve into Mohamedou's case files, Teri is shocked by the government's decision to withhold crucial documents, but Nancy remains steadfast, having already filed a Freedom of Information request.

As their investigation unfolds, Mohamedou takes it upon himself to write letters to his lawyers, sealing each envelope with tape to guarantee their authenticity. At the secure facility, Nancy and Teri pour over these missives, gaining invaluable insight into Mohamedou's thoughts and motivations.

The scene shifts back to November 2002, as Mohamedou (no actor name provided) is forcibly brought onto the grounds of Guantanamo Bay, his head shrouded by a black hood. The cacophony of shouted orders from guards serves as a stark introduction to the harsh reality he's about to face. As he's stripped and searched, his head shaved clean, and his body scrubbed down with rough vigor, Mohamedou is reduced to a mere statistic, his identity erased in favor of a wrist tag bearing his photograph.

Upon being dressed and led to his cell, Mohamedou finds himself confined to a small, windowless space, where he's forced to stand facing the door, his chains held taut by unseen hands. Only once the door closes and the chains release does he allow himself to slump onto the bed, lost in memories of carefree youth, when he'd traveled across the desert with his father, camel trader that he was.

The next morning brings a rude awakening as Mohamedou is hauled away to an interrogation room, where two representatives from the United States government (Adam Rothenberg and Stevel Marc) await, flanked by an Arabic translator. Despite their assurances that they won't harm him ("that shit don't fly no more"), Mohamedou senses an undercurrent of tension as he's probed about his past.

Initially, the tone is relatively relaxed, with Mohamedou even managing to throw off his interrogators by correctly guessing he's being held in Cuba. As the questioning progresses, however, their queries turn to his father, whose untimely passing when Mohamedou was just nine years old has left a lasting impact. Mohamedou shares a poignant tale about his father's aversion to motorized transportation, which ultimately proved to be a fleeting experience.

The interrogation then takes a jarring turn as the focus shifts to Mohamedou's supposed involvement with Al-Qaida in the 1990s. A flashback reveals him learning the ins and outs of machine gun operation amidst the desert sands. As the questioning continues, it becomes clear that Mohamedou is trapped in a web of deception, with his past and present converging into a complex tapestry of truth and falsehood.

As Stu (character) exits the church service, a sense of purpose etches on his face as he spots Bruce's widow. With a solemn determination, he takes her aside and reveals his plan to prosecute a 9/11 case, vowing to bring justice to those responsible. The widow's gratitude is palpable as she offers a benediction, acknowledging the divine guidance that will aid Stu in his quest for truth.

Meanwhile, across the globe, Mohamedou languishes in a Gitmo cell, gazing wistfully at the distant horizon through the rusty fence. His prayers are punctuated by the sound of another prisoner being led into the adjacent cell. As they converse in Arabic, Mohamedou's infectious humor and optimism begin to lift the spirits of his new acquaintance, who is struggling to come to terms with their dire circumstances.

The two men introduce themselves, with Mohamedou refusing to refer to his fellow detainee by a mere numerical designation. The latter identifies himself as being from Marseille, prompting Mohamedou to adopt this moniker for his friend. In turn, Marseille addresses Mohamedou as Mauritanian, and the two prisoners engage in a lively discussion, with Marseille offering words of wisdom: "Learn English," he advises Mohamedou, "and you'll be able to listen to the guards." As their conversation flows, a glimmer of hope emerges amidst the desolate backdrop of Gitmo's isolation cells.

As Nancy's persistence finally gets her an audience with Emmanuel at a bustling eatery, the atmosphere is charged with tension. Her presence is unwelcome, as Emmanuel has been avoiding her since she took on Mohamedou's case and succeeded in alleviating the pressure on his family. However, Nancy remains undeterred, insisting that Emmanuel owes her a favor for her efforts. She appeals to him to leverage his connections in France to verify Mohamedou's account of events in Marseille, which would lend credibility to his claims. Meanwhile, Stu's team discovers Nancy's involvement in Mohamedou's case and looks into her background, uncovering a rich history of fighting against government oppression that spans decades, from the tumultuous Vietnam War era to the present day.

As they delve deeper into the case files, one of Stu's colleagues expresses frustration at the conflicting information, only for Stu to calmly explain that intelligence reports often contain contradictions and inconsistencies. However, this raises a crucial point: Mohamedou's interrogators deliberately omitted dates from their notes, rendering the documents virtually useless. The other lawyers are skeptical about seeking assistance from the CIA, citing the ongoing sensitivity of the case, but Stu is undaunted. He tracks down an old acquaintance, Neil Buckland (Zachary Levi), who has a unique perspective on Mohamedou's situation.

Over drinks at a local bar, Stu and Neil engage in a warm conversation about their families before the topic turns to the case files. Neil's initial skepticism gives way to a candid explanation of the MFRs – the real-time notes that provide a more accurate account of events than the sanitized intelligence reports. However, he is adamant that these classified documents are off-limits, and that the horrors witnessed on television screens during 9/11 served as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked government power.

As Mohamedou continues to correspond with Nancy and Teri, he takes meticulous measures to ensure the authenticity of his letters. With a flourish, he scribbles "The real Charlie Sheen" on the underside of each tape, allowing Nancy to verify their untainted status. At the Privilege team, Kent carefully peruses the missives, redacting and blacking out certain passages while nonetheless finding himself entertained by Mohamedou's words. He then transmits the letters to Nancy's office via fax, where Nancy and Teri are sequestered in a secure room whose windows they've camouflaged with notepaper.

As the narrative rewinds to Mohamedou's initial interrogation, it becomes apparent that he is adamant about distancing himself from Osama bin Laden. Interrogators prod him, citing their knowledge of a call he received on Bin Laden's phone and a subsequent cash infusion courtesy of his cousin. Mohamedou explains that the money was actually intended for hospital bills, as the cousin's father lay ill; however, he offers no tangible proof due to his own state of undress during the initial encounter.

The scene shifts to a later interrogation, where Mohamedou is confronted with a photograph of Ramzi bin al-Shibh, the 20th hijacker. Initially, Mohamedou denies any acquaintance with al-Shibh, but eventually concedes that they had crossed paths once. The interrogators grow increasingly exasperated, pointing out that al-Shibh himself implicated Mohamedou in terrorist activities and allowed him to harbor other radicals in Germany. Mohamedou vigorously disputes these allegations, insisting that he simply befriended a mutual acquaintance who stayed with him for a single night, just as many others had done.

As the tension builds, the interrogators warn Mohamedou that he must provide more convincing testimony if he hopes to discredit al-Shibh's claims; otherwise, they will be forced to believe the latter. Meanwhile, the translator attempts to counsel Mohamedou to cooperate by parroting the desired narrative, but the latter reacts with indignation at this suggestion, refusing to be swayed.

As the days blend together, Mohamedou finds himself once again confined to his outdoor cell, where the monotony is only momentarily broken by the sight of an iguana basking in the sun beneath the fence. The sudden sound of Marseille's voice carries on the breeze, and the two engage in a lively banter that masks their shared desperation. When Marseille tosses a soccer ball over the barrier, Mohamedou's expression turns wistful, a fleeting glimpse into a happier time when he would play with friends on the sun-kissed beaches of his youth. The memory is bittersweet, a poignant reminder of the life left behind.

As fate would have it, Mohamedou returns to his family home to find them gathered in anxious anticipation, their faces etched with worry and hope. His mother's sorrowful eyes betray her true feelings as she reveals that he has been awarded a prestigious scholarship to Germany – a prize that comes with the weight of expectation. Mohamedou's resolve is tested as he grapples with the desire to seize this opportunity, knowing that it would bring pride to his family and community.

Meanwhile, in October 2005, Nancy and Teri venture into a secure facility, their footsteps echoing off the sterile walls as they search for answers amidst the stacks of files. The Freedom of Information request has yielded a bounty of documents, but to their dismay, every line of text is redacted and blacked out – a stark reminder that the truth may be hidden beneath layers of secrecy.

In a contrasting scenario, Stu delves deep into those same files at his office, his eyes scanning the pages for any shred of evidence that might prove Mohamedou's claims. The sudden arrival of Colonel Seidel brings an air of urgency to their conversation, as they discuss the government's plans to set a trial date – a move that would all but guarantee Mohamedou's freedom if the case remains unresolved.

As Stu navigates the complexities of his work, he finds himself drawn to Neil's household for a football game, where they share a quiet moment in the kitchen. Neil reiterates his inability to disclose classified information or access the MFRs, leaving Stu with an impossible task: find conclusive proof that would exonerate Mohamedou and free him from his ordeal. In a last-ditch effort, Stu suggests taking a personal approach – paying a visit to General Mandel, the man in charge at Gitmo, in a bid to uncover the truth and bring justice to those wrongly accused.

As Nancy (character) and Teri revisit Mohamedou, they arrive bearing gifts of tea brewed to the precise specifications of his mother's recipe, accompanied by updates on his family. With a reassuring smile, Nancy alleviates any concerns about tampering with his letters, encouraging him to continue writing, particularly as the government remains tight-lipped about their evidence. Mohamedou's curiosity is piqued, and he shyly inquires whether his words are of sufficient quality, to which Nancy and Teri concur, noting that even the usually stoic Privilege Team takes pleasure in reading his correspondence. However, Mohamedou's enthusiasm is quickly tempered by the revelation that someone else has been privy to his innermost thoughts, prompting a mixture of alarm and trepidation.

Nancy and Teri swiftly calm his nerves, broaching the topic of taking legal action against the government to gain access to their files. Mohamedou's initial reluctance stems from the fear that this move may suggest they no longer believe in his innocence. Nancy attempts to mitigate these concerns, explaining that this is merely a procedural matter, while Teri reaches out to reassure him that they do indeed believe he is innocent. Eventually, Mohamedou agrees to proceed with suing the government, his resolve solidified by the prospect of facing off against high-profile individuals like George Bush and Donald Rumsfeld.

As the trio departs for the airport, Teri engages Nancy in a candid conversation about why she didn't simply assure Mohamedou that they believe him. Instead of offering a direct response, Nancy excuses herself to use the restroom, allowing her to browse the airport gift shop while her mind wanders. There, she is unexpectedly recognized by Stu, who has arrived to meet with a high-ranking official. His introduction is accompanied by an air of formality, which Nancy's wariness does little to dispel.

Despite her reservations, Nancy agrees to join Stu for a drink, during which they engage in small talk about the beauty of the surrounding beachscape. As the conversation progresses, Nancy ventures a speculative remark about Guantanamo potentially becoming a future tourist destination, where visitors can come to grapple with the complexities of its history. Stu's reaction is one of measured interest, and he inquires as to what she believes is truly happening here. Nancy confesses her ignorance but senses that there must be more at play than simply detaining prisoners outside US jurisdiction.

Stu's curiosity is piqued, and he presses Nancy about the redacted files, urging her to take legal action to uncover their contents. He reveals a surprising willingness for her to obtain these documents, citing his own desire for transparency, should he ultimately emerge victorious in court. As they part ways, Stu probes Nancy about her motivations for defending Mohamedou, prompting her to clarify that she is actually fighting on behalf of the law itself. She poses a rhetorical question to Stu: what will happen if it becomes clear that this place was built upon flawed principles, and the truth ultimately reveals that those in power were mistaken all along?

As the plane touches down, Nancy shares with Teri a critical insight - they must recalibrate the public narrative surrounding the case, shifting the focus beyond the individual at its center. Meanwhile, Stu embarks on a guided tour of Guantanamo's facilities, where he is accompanied by a solemn soldier who leads him to a specific cellblock. The guard casually mentions that Mohamedou spent time in this very same area, sparking an unsettling realization for Stu.

As they continue their journey, the pair arrives at a cell that seems eerily devoid of life. Yet, upon closer inspection, Stu notices a disturbing array of chains attached to the walls and floor, a stark reminder of the harsh realities within these walls. The cold air is palpable, and it's as if the very atmosphere seems to vibrate with an ominous energy.

Stu's discomfort is amplified by the cacophony of loud heavy metal music emanating from a nearby room, a sound he despises almost as much as country music - a genre he begrudgingly tolerates. This sonic assault only serves to heighten his sense of unease.

Following this unsettling interlude, Stu meets with General Mandel (Matthew Marsh), who greets him with a mixture of curiosity and authority. As they converse, Stu inquires about the significance of the cell's design, wondering aloud if the prisoners are subjected to sleep deprivation as a tool of psychological manipulation. The General offers a cryptic response, revealing that sleep deprivation is indeed one of their arsenal of techniques.

Intrigued by this revelation, Stu draws parallels with his own experiences during training, where he was forced to endure three long nights without rest. He notes the trauma it inflicted upon him and his fellow Marines, only for General Mandel to dismiss such concerns, claiming that a mere few sleepless nights are hardly comparable to the treatment meted out to these detainees.

Stu's growing unease is palpable as he begins to worry about the potential implications of this information on the defense's case. He presses the General for access to the Military File Records (MFRs), but his request is met with a firm rejection, and Stu is left feeling frustrated and disappointed by the waste of his trip.

As Mohamedou's time at Gitmo progresses, he begins to make strides in his self-taught English language skills, playfully mimicking the guard who brings him outside with a hint of mischievousness. His attempts at small talk yield little more than a cryptic response from the guard, who remains tight-lipped about his identity. Outside, Mohamedou tries out his new vocabulary on Marseille, regaling him with a selection of colourful curses he's picked up along the way. However, Marseille's sombre mood is palpable, having received only a letter from his wife - a poignant reminder that some things are forever lost to distance and circumstance.

Mohamedou inquires about the guard's marital status, and we're transported back to his life in Germany, where he lived with his ex-wife amidst struggles to conceive. The television broadcasts news of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, prompting Mohamedou and his friends to discuss ways they could aid the Muslim community there. His wife's concerns are evident as she worries about her husband's involvement, which ultimately leads to another intense interrogation session.

This time around, the interrogators berate Mohamedou for his supposed decision to join Al-Qaida, but he responds in English, attempting to convey that his motivations were rooted in a desire to support the Muslim fight against Soviet occupation. He acknowledges the US's tacit backing of Al-Qaida during this period and stresses that his involvement was short-lived. The interrogators press Mohamedou about deleting contacts from his phone upon arrest, to which he explains his only concern was protecting his friends from potential repercussions.

As Mohamedou Ould Slahi's (Slahi) gaze drifts back to the outside world, he finds solace in a familiar friend - the soccer ball that had been his only companion in the desolate confines of his cell. With an air of resignation, he approaches Marseille (actor not provided), who is unenthused by the prospect of reclaiming the ball, instead urging Mohamedou to keep it as a symbol of their shared fate: imprisonment without reprieve. Mohamedou's mind wanders to the ocean's soothing melodies that once lulled him to sleep in Mauritania, and he begins to swing gently on the fence, lost in thought. The sound of approaching guards shatters the momentary peace, and Mohamedou's attention is drawn to a tear in the tattered fabric covering the perimeter fence, allowing him a fleeting glimpse of Marseille. With a hint of defiance, Marseille flashes a reassuring smile and whispers, "See you later, alligator." In a poignant foreshadowing of the tragedy to come.

Meanwhile, Nancy (actor not provided) sits for an interview with a journalist who seems more interested in probing her motivations than exploring the intricacies of the case. The published article is less than flattering, but Stu's (actor not provided) office remains unfazed, convinced that Nancy has successfully turned the public's attention to the far-reaching implications of habeas corpus. However, the sudden appearance of a colleague being denied access to the building due to clearance issues sends Stu into alarm mode. The reason for this sudden revocation is revealed when the same colleague explains that their only "crime" was fulfilling Stu's own request for information - a stark reminder of the arbitrary nature of power.

As Nancy navigates the complexities of her investigation, she receives a chilling phone call from Emmanuel (actor not provided), who reveals his inability to uncover any evidence linking a French individual from Marseille to Guantanamo. The notion that Mohamedou may have fabricated Marseille's existence sends Nancy reeling. A poignant flashback transports us back to Mohamedou's cell, where he is now acquainted with the guard, Steve (actor not provided). In a heart-wrenching confession, Steve reveals the devastating truth: Marseille took his own life a month prior. The weight of this revelation crushes Mohamedou, leaving him to grapple with the cruel irony of their shared fate and the fleeting nature of hope in the face of unyielding oppression.

As the narrative shifts to 2008, Teri and Nancy's quest for truth takes a dramatic turn as they approach the courthouse doors, only to be met by a sea of vociferous pro-USA protesters. The crowd's fervor is palpable as they hurl insults at the lawyers, with one particularly zealous individual sending Teri tumbling to the ground. Brushing off her bruises, she affirms she's unscathed, her resolve unwavering.

Inside the courtroom, Nancy delivers a compelling argument that ultimately persuades the judge to order the government to release its files within a ten-day window. As they arrive at the secure facility, the sheer scale of the unredacted documents is staggering – rows upon rows of boxes overflowing with sensitive information. With the truth finally within their grasp, Teri and Nancy delve into the contents.

As Teri's eyes scan the pages, her world begins to unravel. She becomes increasingly distressed as she discovers multiple copies of Mohamedou's signed confessions, detailing every alleged wrongdoing the government has levied against him. Her distress is rooted in the stark reality that her trust in Mohamedou has been shattered, despite her unwavering support for his defense fund and her personal sacrifices – including being told to forego Thanksgiving celebrations with her family.

Nancy's ire is kindled by Teri's emotional response, as she passionately asserts that even if Mohamedou is guilty, he still deserves the services of a capable attorney. With an air of resignation, Nancy bids Teri to depart, her words laced with a tinge of sadness. As Teri exits the facility in tears, the once-unshakeable foundation of their partnership begins to crumble, leaving uncertainty and heartache in its wake.

As Mohamedou's (character) grueling interrogation session resumes, his tormentors attempt to curry favor by presenting him with a cake, claiming it's a parting gift. Unbeknownst to the captive, this brief respite is merely a ploy to lull him into a false sense of security before the real onslaught begins. Military intelligence officials arrive on the scene, determined to extract a confession from Mohamedou using more...persuasive methods. They ominously warn him that these new interrogation techniques will be far less "cordial" than those employed by his previous interrogators.

As the military personnel depart, their comrades arrive to chain Mohamedou up with rough brutality, leaving his notebook in tatters and casting a hood over his head before dragging him away into the darkness. Meanwhile, back in the present, Nancy's visit to Mohamedou yields a mix of emotions. His initial inquiry about Teri's whereabouts is met with the disappointing news that she has moved on from the case, which leaves Mohamedou feeling disheartened.

Nancy's revelation that they've obtained crucial government files does bring a glimmer of hope, however, as Mohamedou believes this development could prove his innocence by revealing a lack of evidence against him. However, when Nancy brings up the topic of confessions, Mohamedou becomes increasingly agitated and defensive, insisting that these "false" statements were coerced from him under duress.

Nancy's persistence in uncovering the truth leads her to demand an explanation for Mohamedou's cryptic remarks, but he remains reluctant to share any details, fearing that his lawyer may not be able to defend him if she discovers the extent of his alleged cooperation. Nancy's frustration boils over as she berates Mohamedou for being dishonest with her, warning that without complete candor, she'll be unable to mount an effective defense.

Mohamedou's heated retort underscores the futility of their situation: he feels trapped in a never-ending cycle of despair, while Nancy is forced to confront the harsh reality that her commitment to his case may not necessarily translate into a personal stake. As their bitter exchange reaches its climax, Nancy issues Mohamedou an ultimatum: either he reveals the truth about his confessions or find himself a new lawyer. With those words, she departs, leaving Mohamedou to ponder the bleak prospects facing him in this seemingly endless struggle for justice.

As the festive atmosphere of Stu's Christmas party begins to dwindle, he finds Neil lingering by the pool, his thoughts consumed by the weight of their shared experiences. With a sense of urgency, Stu confronts Neil about the disturbing events that have transpired at Guantanamo Bay. He expresses his discontent with the lack of transparency surrounding Mohamedou's case, revealing that he has been ostracized from the task force and left to grapple with the moral implications of it all.

Neil, visibly affected by their conversation, counters by recounting the atrocities committed on Flight 63. He vividly describes the brutal manner in which Bruce was killed, his throat slit as he bled out while the plane plummeted to the ground. Neil's eyes blaze with a fierce intensity as he demands that someone must be held accountable for such senseless violence.

As their discussion reaches a fever pitch, Stu reveals his own growing unease and frustration with the situation. He is torn between his duty to uphold the law and his moral obligation to ensure justice is served. The weight of these conflicting emotions becomes almost palpable as he implores Neil that it should not be just anyone who pays the price for such atrocities, but rather someone truly responsible.

Meanwhile, back at Guantanamo Bay, Mohamedou's anguish grows as he struggles to muster the courage to write a letter to Nancy, his loved one. As Nancy receives this latest correspondence, we are transported to Stu's office late at night, where Neil has appeared with a sudden change of heart. He reveals that Donald Rumsfeld had authorized the use of "enhanced interrogation" techniques, and that an aide is waiting to escort Stu to a room where he can review the full Military File Reports (MFRs).

In a desolate cell devoid of comfort or solace, Mohamedou was brutally introduced to a realm of unending torment. Masked soldiers dragged him away from any semblance of peace, chaining him to a "stress position" that defied human endurance. The air was thick with the din of heavy metal music and blinding lights, rendering sleep an impossible luxury as hours blended into days. Two male and one female soldier, their faces hidden behind grotesque Halloween masks, reveled in Mohamedou's anguish, subjecting him to waterboarding that left him gasping for breath.

As he prayed for respite, the female soldier stooped to new lows, her cruel taunts and sexual assaults summoning a maelstrom of hallucinations. Mohamedou's mind recoiled in horror as he found himself transported back to his family wedding, but the surreal tableau was marred by the stark reality of his imprisonment. The boundaries between reality and delusion blurred further when General Mandel threatened to imprison Mohamedou's mother, sending him into a downward spiral of despair.

In this state of exhaustion and confusion, Mohamedou's mind conjured a doorway that led him back to his apartment in Germany, still clad in the tattered remnants of his prison garb. As he entered, al-Shibh materialized, claiming Mohamedou as the architect of his recruitment into terrorism, a notion that sent shivers down Mohamedou's spine. The sudden appearance of his first interrogators only exacerbated the chaos, as they forced him to confront the brutal reality of their actions.

The tortuous cycle continued, with Mohamedou oscillating between states of delirium and despair. He was subjected to further abuse, including the grotesque spectacle of being force-fed like an animal. The constant flux left him disoriented, until he found himself back in his original interrogation room, face-to-face with the sadistic female soldier who had tormented him earlier.

Her mask removed, she revealed a glimmer of humanity beneath her cruel exterior, expressing a desire to cease their brutal tactics. But Mohamedou's torment was far from over, as soldiers burst into the room and dragged him away once more. This time, he was taken on a speedboat, his head repeatedly submerged in icy waters as the vessel hurtled through the darkness.

A battered and broken Mohamedou was eventually revisited by General Mandel, who delivered a chilling ultimatum: his mother's arrest would likely culminate in her brutalization unless she cooperated. In a desperate bid for relief, Mohamedou prayed fervently in his cell, only to summon the strength to confess. The General's reading of Mohamedou's words was interrupted by the arrival of food, which Mohamedou promptly rejected with a scornful glance.

As Stu's eyes scan the devastating contents of the letter, his horror is palpable. Meanwhile, Nancy's eyes well up with tears, her expression a testament to the emotional toll the revelation takes on her. She retrieves the incriminating document and presents it to Kent, requesting that he carefully review its contents before declassifying it, mindful of the potential consequences for her client. The weight of the situation is evident in Stu's somber demeanor as he attends church services, his repetition of prayers a poignant expression of his commitment to seeking justice and upholding human dignity.

In the midst of this turmoil, Stu encounters Colonel Seidel in the parking lot, where he delivers a stern rebuke: Mohamedou's confessions, obtained through torture, are inadmissible and cannot be used as evidence. The colonel's outrage is predictable, his insistence on proceeding with charges despite the ethical implications a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding justice. Stu's refusal to prosecute, rooted in his Christian values and professional integrity, sparks a heated exchange, culminating in Seidel's scathing accusation: "You're a traitor." The scene shifts as Nancy visits Mohamedou, her compassion and empathy evident in her tears as she reads aloud from the letter he had written. Her subsequent suggestion that he consider releasing his letters as a book, thereby allowing the public to bear witness to his plight and pressure the government for accountability, is met with a mixture of skepticism and gratitude.

As the Muslim call to prayer echoes through the facility, Nancy asks Mohamedou if she should step outside to allow him to pray uninterrupted. His query, "Why do you care?" is answered by her heartfelt admission: she has come to visit not solely to facilitate his signature on documents but also to ensure that he never feels truly alone again.

As Stu vacates his office, his colleagues bear witness to his departure, their expressions a mix of curiosity and concern. Later that evening, he meets Nancy at a watering hole, where she offers words of encouragement, acknowledging that his decision may have come at a personal cost - the loss of friendships. Her insight is rooted in a deeper understanding: Guantanamo's extraterritorial location wasn't designed to shield prisoners from legal accountability, but rather to safeguard the actions of their captors. Her client, by her own admission, is not a suspect, but a vital witness whose testimony has been rendered powerless.

As they converse, Nancy's eyes light up when Stu hints at a particular file box, suggesting she'll find something that will resonate with her. The next day, Teri arrives at the office to discover an envelope waiting for her on her desk. Inside, she finds evidence that Mohamedou had passed a polygraph test twice, his responses consistent and truthful. Nancy's counsel is sought out once more by Teri, who presents her with a photograph that has significant implications. The image in question captures Marseille, but the individual in question was actually Ahmed Jabar, whose wife had shared stories of their life together. Nancy urges Teri to re-engage with the case, and this time, she agrees, embarking on a journey that will test her resolve and challenge everything she thought she knew about justice.

As the winter of 2009 gives way to the dawn of a new decade, Mohamedou's fate hangs precariously in the balance as his case goes to trial. The courtroom is filled with the weight of justice, as prosecutors from Stu's (character) own ranks present their case against him. Yet, despite the odds stacked against him, Mohamedou seizes the opportunity to testify via video link, recounting the harrowing tale of his experiences in Mauritania and Guantanamo. He recounts a world where trust is a luxury few can afford, one where violence and fear are the instruments of control wielded by authorities.

Mohamedou's words are laced with wisdom born from suffering, as he speaks of the futility of holding grudges against those who have wronged him. He finds solace in the ancient Arabic concept that defines forgiveness and freedom as two sides of the same coin – a notion that grants him the freedom to transcend his circumstances. And then, in March 2010, comes the news that changes everything: Mohamedou's case has been successful, with the judge ordering his release.

The jubilation is palpable as he celebrates with his guards and leaps onto his bed, bellowing "Freedom!" at the top of his lungs. Yet, the cruel twist of fate intervenes, as the government appeals the decision, condemning Mohamedou to another seven years in captivity. The passing of time proves merciless, with the loss of his mother in 2013 serving as a poignant reminder of the years he has lost.

Through it all, Nancy (character) and Teri (character) remain steadfast visitors, offering support and encouragement. Their efforts yield a tangible testament to Mohamedou's resilience: the publication of his letters as the powerful book "Guantanamo Diary" in 2015. Finally, after an unconscionable 14-year ordeal, Mohamedou is released in 2016. The scene shifts as he emerges from his cell, only to be met with a blindfold and noise-canceling headphones – a surreal precursor to his departure on a military plane. As the doors close behind him, Mohamedou flashes a sly smile, whispering "See you later, Alligator" into the void.

As the curtain lifts on reality, we are treated to a poignant glimpse of Mohamedou's (Mohamedou) triumphant return to Mauritania. The scene shifts to reveal photographs and testimonials that humanize the individuals at the heart of this remarkable story. Our attention turns to Mohamedou, now settled in his native land and embarking on a new chapter with his American lawyer wife, whom he married in 2018. Together, they have welcomed a baby son, Ahmed, but their family is incomplete without the security of protection and citizenship that they so desperately seek.

Meanwhile, Nancy and Teri, two unwavering champions of justice, continue to crusade against injustice. A touching moment unfolds as Mohamedou bestows necklaces bearing his friends' names in Arabic, a symbol of solidarity and appreciation. The stark contrast between the harsh realities faced by those detained at Guantanamo Bay and the overwhelming lack of accountability is laid bare: despite the imprisonment of 779 individuals, only eight have been found guilty, with three convictions subsequently overturned.

As the credits roll, we are granted a glimpse into Mohamedou's personal life as he ponders various translations of his book, a testament to his perseverance in sharing his story. The film concludes with a stirring scene of Mohamedou singing along to a Bob Dylan song, a poignant expression of hope and resilience that underscores the enduring power of the human spirit.