I think the freedom of expression is not a characteristics of the seventh art itself, think of all the propaganda films the nazi germany made during world war II, rather it is a trait of all artists, regardless of the medium or form.
But cinema is the most accessible art form and can leave its impact in a broader way, hence more noticeable. I suppose you're on point in that sense.

Learned review, @wiseagent, although that's not surprising, you've been writing about movies for a long time.

I have yet to see these two films, but I've read Ebert's article on it a few years back. Looked promising. enough!