As intense as it must have been to live it

Rating: 8/10 (26 November 2009)

I believe that this film comes as close to the viewer actually experiencing the immense tension those days as it is possible to get. Reviewers who actually did, please correct me if I am wrong. I did not remember many details about the Cuban missile crisis going into this picture; yet I was instantly captivated when it began. It is exciting and engaging throughout, and well-paced, so that while a lot of information and emotion is being conveyed and a lot of credible characters introduced, we're never overwhelmed, the movie doesn't lose us at any point. Production values leave absolutely nothing to be desired, and the many shots of military hardware are stunning. The plot is intelligent, intricate and well-told. Editing and cinematography are marvelous. Acting is excellent, and it seemed like those of the leads who ought to all went for the Boston accent(I understand that Costner's was poor, but at least the attempt was made). Every role is well-cast, as well. There is some humor in this, the amount and tone are appropriate, it doesn't try too hard and it's quite funny. There is infrequent moderate to strong language in this, and the subject matter is, obviously, rather disturbing. If you think a 13-year-old can handle it, then you can try to let them watch it. I recommend this to everyone, and I sympathize with anyone who had to live through the terrifying two weeks(and were old enough at the time to understand what was going on). 8/10