Rating: A-III (R)

Engrossing docudrama (including some archival footage) about the 1999 meeting of the World Trade Organization in Seattle, as thousands of protesters, decrying the agency’s globalization policies — involving issues like environmentalism, fair trade and employment — clashed violently with police, turning the city into a virtual war zone and leading to the collapse of the WTO talks. Actor Stuart Townsend, in his directorial and writing debut, maintains a taut pace with mostly fictional central characters playing out against the actual events, and the fine cast — playing protesters (mostly nonviolent), government officials and law enforcers — includes Ray Liotta, Woody Harrelson, Charlize Theron and Andre Benjamin. Some brutal riot violence, much rough language and some profanity, and a premarital situation. The USCCB Office for Film & Broadcasting classification is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association of America rating is R — restricted. Under 17 requires accompanying parent or adult guardian.