May 2, 2011, was an incredibly big day for U.S. citizens. At appproximately 9:00 PM, a special report was broadcast on live television with good news. President Obama announced that Osama bin Laden, one of the biggest threats to the United States, was killed by a group of U.S. forces. Celebration ignited the next minute.

Government officials wouldn’t release photos or any footage that occurred during the mission and stated that it might cause tension and other potential terrorist actions. Many believed this story, others did not. Some wanted to hear an in-depth description of what happened.

Shortly afterwards, news stations including Good Morning America and Nightline showed animated visuals on exactly what happened when U.S. forces walked into the highly secured building that bin Laden was in. But what happened before? Why so sudden? Less than one year later, Director Kathryn Bigelow released one of the biggest movies of all time showing what was planned months before bin Laden was killed and what actually happened on May 2nd: Zero Dark Thirty.

Staring Jessica Chastain and Jason Clarke, Zero Dark Thirty started off quite strong. Disturbing clips of human torture were shown when both characters tried to get a hold of information regarding possible terrorist attacks or most importantly, where Osama bin Laden might be. Though explicit, the vivid scenery immediately gave the audience that “cold feeling.” Of course, for a movie like this, it was essential for strong emotions to stir.

The atmosphere throughout the film fit exactly how anyone would visualize U.S./Middle Eastern tension. Although much of the movie is carried out by dialogue between characters trying to gain possession of crucial information, little things are thrown out here and there that catch the viewer off guard, keeping them glued to their seat. Going to the bathroom can wait.

To avoid spoilers, going straight to the end would be best. After intense research, the U.S. suspected bin Laden to be located in the heart of Pakistan but wasn’t quite sure. Taking the risk regardless, two helicopters flew down on the property, one taking a rough, unexpected landing. U.S. forces took heavy precaution and although it’s almost certain the procedures done in the film weren’t identical to reality, they came pretty close.

You can feel the tension from the get-go. Although there are some moments of inactivity, everybody will be waiting for that one moment they know would ultimately be coming.

The missing gaps are for you to experience. Certainly worth the watch!