Best film of the second half of the year

Rating: 7/10 (20 November 2005)

I think that this movie will get a higher rating when it comes out on DVD. It is a well done movie, not Mendes best, but who can beat American Beauty (No one in 1999)? Gylenhall, Sarsgaard,and Foxx are at the top of their games in the acting business. I wish more of Chris Cooper was in their, because he was a real hard ass. However, this film has great direction, acting, and a very honest story, which unfortunately was it's downfall. It was smart to advertise this film as an action film, but very dishonest to the viewers. Who won't see a war flick that's littered with stars like these? However, it's honesty makes this film all the better. It's a downer, but some things are meant to be that way. If I could give this an 8.5 rating I would, but since a nine is too great, I'll have to settle for an 8. However, this one is worth seeing, and I expect it will be nominated for plenty of Golden Globes and I'm predicting 7 Academy Nominations (Picture, Director, 2 Supporting Acting (Foxx and Sarsgaard), Costumes, Adapted Screenplay, and cinematography). Their could be a nomination for Gylenhall, but Brokeback mountain should do that for him. Crash is the only other film better this year. Batman was actually better, but I'm thinking in Academy terms right now. But this film is the best of the second half of the year so far.