A Brilliant Portrait of Courage ... See It Now!

Rating: 9/10 (7 October 2005)

This is the one of the most intense, original, and beautifully-crafted films in the history of cinema. David Strathairn's performance is simply astonishing. Juxtaposed with the actual footage of Senator McCarthy, the recreation of Edward R. Murrow takes on an eerie quasi-reality which makes this film so absorbing. It is rather an insult for moviegoers to have to pay to watch a sloppy, inaccurate period piece; therefore, kudos to the production team for paying such meticulous attention to detail. The use of black-and-white is the central cohesive element, yet in such soft focus that the surface appears to have been delicately scratched with sand. Even the subtle jazz soundtrack is incorporated visually into the film. George Clooney shows a genuine sense of artistry here and a directorial Oscar in 2006 is not out of the realm of possibility. Most assuredly, David Strathairn will be giving Philip Seymour Hoffman a run for his money.