I finally watched F:9/11 (after downloading a free and small, but poor-quality copy).

I have to say that, after all the counter-hype, it seems remarkably tame.

Perhaps what's most telling is the parts that received the least criticism:

• the coverage of our government- and media-driven fear of terrorism, which, obviously has some basis in fact (I find Moore's later remarks that "there is no terrorist threat" to be obscene, but I think that future generations will view the degree of hysteria as akin to the backyard bomb shelters of the 50's)
• the disconcerting relationship between Bush and the Saudi Royal Family
• the gritty footage of war in Iraq — i.e. not pretty map graphics or toppled statues

These are Moore at his thought-provoking best. I don't think the film asks any questions that aren't worth thinking about, even if you end up with a position different from the filmmakers'.

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