Enigmatically crafted narrative, engaging direction and exquisite performances

Rating: 8/10 (10 January 2013)

Kathryn Bigelow's direction for this film missed out on an Oscar nomination and I can just about see why. I much preferred Ben Affleck's intricately filmed Argo or more appropriately Paul Greengras' thrilling Green Zone. That is not to say her direction is lacking here, it is interesting and unique and more importantly does not dwell on one aspect, particularly in scenes following troops in action.
Jessica Chastain leads the acting performances alongside a brilliant Jason Clarke. There are also very enjoyable cameos from Stephen Dillane and James Gandolfini. Overall the support cast is of the highest order, and for me both Mark Strong and Kyle Chandler play traditionally awkward, dull government roles very artistically indeed.
Highly thrilling, intelligent and at times emotional, Zero Dark Thirty confirms film's very healthy engagement with post 9/11 related war material.