One of the only films to examine the phenomenon of suicide terror through the eyes of its perpetrators, Abu-Assad's intelligent, nail-biting drama generated heated controversy when it debuted in 2005. While the film dramatizes the murderous mindset of professional terrorists, it also provides insight into the psychology of those who murder not out of religious fanaticism, but rather a sense of futility and aggrieved humiliation. Taut pacing, agile direction, and great performances by Nashef, Suliman, and Lubna Azabal (as Said's friend and love interest, Suha, the lone voice of reason) made "Paradise" an Oscar contender.