Spy Film for the Thinking man

Rating: 9/10 (16 May 2007)

If you are hoping to see Matt Damon shooting bad guys and saving the world, then you are in for the wrong movie. This film is more about the complex nature of espionage; where nothing is what it seems, none of your friends can be trusted, and you are always being watched. There are countless great performances in this film. Matt Damon does an excellent job as Edwards Wilson, a man who while quiet and often emotionless, is so interesting and mysterious.
Note this film is very long and is a type of film where you need to be paying attention to the smallest things that are shown and said. A single line can be a huge turning point on the film. The Script in this film is complex and you probably will need to see the film 2 or 3 times to fully understand everything that is said. Robert DeNiro's directing is very good and flows well. The only issue with this film is while rather long, it can be slow moving at parts. Other good films for people who like the espionage era is Spy Game and Three Days of the Condor and for those who like a very intelligent script then try Ronin, The Way of the Gun, and Spartan.
This is an excellent movie and one of the best espionage films ever created. If you are looking for a complex, intelligent espionage film, you have found it. But if you are looking for a Bond film with explosions and firefights, then you are in for a very boring movie.