Robert De Niro reveals his depth in this extensive character study

Rating: 10/10 (3 March 2012)

Robert De Niro reveals his depth in this extensive character study of the counterintelligence branch of the Central Intelligence Agency. From the first moments of the film, we are intrigued by our look into one of the secret societies of Ivy League universities, and their influences on American society. Matt Damon's character is strangely static throughout the film...or is it? This is a film of subtlety and innuendo, a film you will have to see at least twice to understand entirely. Angelina Jolie gives us a surprising look into her abilities as an actress. Gone is the determined, focused, independent woman we have seen in so many of her films. Alec Baldwin provides an element of stability in a film where nothing remains the same. With a breadth of talent seldom seen in a single film, De Niro provides a story of how the intelligence community has shaped the American perspective since the 1940's, and the depth of their intrigue. Rated R for sex, language, violence and content, this is a film for the grownups.