*Take No Prisoners* follows U.S. hostage negotiator Roger Carstens in his efforts to free Eyvin Hernandez, a public defender imprisoned in Venezuela. Directed by Adam Ciralsky and Subrata De, the film emphasizes the emotional toll on families involved and highlights a critical but underreported case. Capable access granted by the Biden administration enables an in-depth exploration of these negotiations and their broader implications for U.S. foreign policy.
The documentary Take No Prisoners, directed by Adam Ciralsky and Subrata De, offers a revealing look into the efforts of Roger Carstens, America’s foremost hostage negotiator, as he endeavors to secure the release of Eyvin Hernandez, a Los Angeles public defender imprisoned in Venezuela. While the film opens dramatically with the exchange of convicted drug traffickers for American hostages in a Miami airport, the narrative primarily captures Carstens’s ongoing mission to free Hernandez, who was detained while trying to resolve a passport issue at the Colombian-Venezuelan border.
Ciralsky, granted unique access by the Biden administration, embedded himself in negotiations that spanned various locations, including Canouan and Caracas. His experiences informed not only the documentary but also a related article in Vanity Fair and a scripted adaptation planned by Hulu. The filmmakers felt compelled to focus on Hernandez’s story, highlighting the lack of media attention despite his dire circumstances compared to high-profile cases such as Brittney Griner’s.
In an interview, Ciralsky emphasized the significance of Hernandez’s case, pointing out that while celebrity stories received wide coverage, the plight of Hernandez and his family was largely overlooked. De added that Roger Carstens approached all cases with equal concern, which was critical to demonstrate in the film. The Biden administration’s collaboration stemmed from their view that freeing Americans held abroad was an essential foreign policy success.
The documentary juxtaposes intense political drama with the emotional turmoil experienced by Hernandez’s family, reflecting how both families involved and government negotiators navigate prolonged periods of uncertainty. The filmmakers aimed to capture this shared emotional landscape as they chronicled the harrowing journey faced by both sides. As for distribution following SXSW, Ciralsky noted that they have generated interest, noting the unusual sequence of events surrounding their project’s promotion.
*Take No Prisoners* presents an intimate portrayal of the complexities involved in hostage negotiations, focusing on the poignant story of Eyvin Hernandez and the relentless efforts of Roger Carstens. The documentary sheds light on the emotional struggles of families and negotiators alike, illustrating the intricate balance between governmental action and personal anguish. This film serves as both a narrative of advocacy and a compelling exploration of the hostage crisis landscape.
Original Source: variety.com
