Most interesting movie from Spielberg since Schindlers List

Rating: 8/10 (2 April 2006)

I'm no huge fan of Steven Spielberg, rather i find him a competent if rather uninteresting film-maker. Especially these past years. Now however, after seeing Munich, i had to re-evaluate my stance somewhat.
It is a brave thing Spielberg is doing in this movie. Tolerance for multiple perspectives has declined recently to say the least, and here Spielberg is presenting a movie without clear morals dealing with the touchy subjects of religion and terrorism. And in my opinion the timing is perfect. The ability to not see things in just black and white is what i feel separates intelligent people from fools, and so many people act foolish today just because they don't use that ability. What makes this movie great is the fact that Spielberg never comes even close to justifying the terror attack on the 1972 Olympics in Munich, he just asks if barbaric acts should answered in kind. A just question.
The movie itself is well made with excellent acting. Great thought must have gone into the casting process and what we get is near perfection. Eric Bana is excellent as is the rest of his team of assassins. The technical qualities of the movie are excellent, achieving a very 70's feel. But of course the story is the star here and this is by far the most interesting movie from Spielberg since Schindler's List. Unfortunately for him the race for the Oscars was tight this time around with loads of worthy entries, otherwise this would have been a clear-cut contender for several awards.