Great acting and beautiful cinematography

Rating: 7/10 (31 March 2006)

When I watch a film, I often watch it more than just to be entertained. I like to learn from film as well, and this fulfills both needs very well. Perhaps it loses some of it's entertainment factor by staying so close to the source material, however that doesn't detract too much. For one such as myself with very little prior knowledge of the subject matter, the film is rather confusing at first. After the first half hour or so though, the plot sucks you in and you wont want to blink. Strathairn skillfully heads up a wholly incredible cast, backed up by such strong supporting actors as Ray Wise, Frank Langella, and even director George Clooney himself. Though Clooney is great on both sides of the camera, in this film he really shines behind it. The beautiful cinematography blew me away, though I am a sucker for back and white. Overall, this film does drag in parts but is completely worth it. Should have one at least one or two Oscars.
7.5/10