"Cinema is simply a matter of what's in the frame, and what's out." - Martin Scorsese
Rules of Engagement:
1. Respect the opinions of the people on the blog and the filmmakers who's films we are talking about.
2. Be careful with your spoilers. Try to avoid spoiling the movie for others. If you post something that might involve heavy plot details be sure to mark it with spoiler tag in big bold letters like so: ***SPOILERS***
3. If you start a new topic, please attempt to write out something full. It doesn't have to be a full review of the film, but at least enough to get a discussion going.
4. Have fun! We want to hear your opinions! Post as much as you see fit!
This is one of those really great adult drama-thrillers that comes out every year and most people don't see. (i.e. Michael Clayton, Syriana, The International, Edge of Darkness etc...)
It is deftly directed, shot AMAZINGLY, the Production Design is ridiculous, and it has the likes of Russell Crowe, Rachel McAdams, Helen Mirren, Ben Affleck and Jeff Daniels in it... what's not to like????
The story revolves around a Washington reporter (Crowe) who's former college roommate/now State Senator gets caught up in a political scandal after the death of an aide...
This was one of my favorite movies of the year. A daring political thriller, with a strong cast and a group of outstanding filmmakers.
Like John said, there is some truly remarkable pieces to this movie. I loved that Rodrigo Preito (cinematographer), used two different formats for the two unique worlds we are ingrained in. The newspaper/reporting side of the story was shot with film, connecting to the gritty ways of modern day journalism. The political/congress stuff was all shot digital, giving a cleaner and sleek look, giving into the idea that capital hill is shiny and clean (when really its quite the opposite).
I think my favorite part of this movie is the pacing. The editing style has grace. Each scene melts right into the next, never making me feel like we've jumped to the next thing, but that we have been lead there by the story and the case that's going on. The scenes are well written and constructed, and shows itself throughout the entire film.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good political thriller...something that pulls you in and makes you really pay attention to everything that is going on. The actors draw you in and are fantastic. The soundtrack is top notch, subtle but remember-able. Another one of the simple touches that shines in this sleeper hit.
I have to start off by saying I'm not exactly someone who's quick with the political thrillers. That being said I think this is a movie that deserves 2 or 3 watches (at least for those slightly politically handicapped). I liked it but sometimes I would get lost at a turn and have to spend time figuring out where fell off the wagon to catch back up.
Also, while I tend to agree with Dan and John about hearing small tidbits about the movie before you watch it and how it might help you appreciate it more, if you are someone that leans towards camera and the like, knowing about the digital vs. film part might pull you out of the story. One might, oh I dunno, spend the first half an hour waiting to see if you can see the difference in the medium change. If you can, try to forget and watch the movie.
I will say, however, that the medium change is brilliant and I translate the use of digital to be more along the lines of making you feel uneasy in the political settings. The newspaper settings feel normal and real, because film grain is something we're used to seeing. The digital is cold and detached. Rigid. I still can't figure out what medium they used in locations outside of the newspaper and the gov't but still contained characters from both sides.
Just re-watched this film tonight on Blu Ray.
ReplyDeleteThis is one of those really great adult drama-thrillers that comes out every year and most people don't see. (i.e. Michael Clayton, Syriana, The International, Edge of Darkness etc...)
It is deftly directed, shot AMAZINGLY, the Production Design is ridiculous, and it has the likes of Russell Crowe, Rachel McAdams, Helen Mirren, Ben Affleck and Jeff Daniels in it... what's not to like????
The story revolves around a Washington reporter (Crowe) who's former college roommate/now State Senator gets caught up in a political scandal after the death of an aide...
Anyone else given this a look??
This was one of my favorite movies of the year. A daring political thriller, with a strong cast and a group of outstanding filmmakers.
ReplyDeleteLike John said, there is some truly remarkable pieces to this movie. I loved that Rodrigo Preito (cinematographer), used two different formats for the two unique worlds we are ingrained in. The newspaper/reporting side of the story was shot with film, connecting to the gritty ways of modern day journalism. The political/congress stuff was all shot digital, giving a cleaner and sleek look, giving into the idea that capital hill is shiny and clean (when really its quite the opposite).
I think my favorite part of this movie is the pacing. The editing style has grace. Each scene melts right into the next, never making me feel like we've jumped to the next thing, but that we have been lead there by the story and the case that's going on. The scenes are well written and constructed, and shows itself throughout the entire film.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good political thriller...something that pulls you in and makes you really pay attention to everything that is going on. The actors draw you in and are fantastic. The soundtrack is top notch, subtle but remember-able. Another one of the simple touches that shines in this sleeper hit.
I have to start off by saying I'm not exactly someone who's quick with the political thrillers. That being said I think this is a movie that deserves 2 or 3 watches (at least for those slightly politically handicapped). I liked it but sometimes I would get lost at a turn and have to spend time figuring out where fell off the wagon to catch back up.
ReplyDeleteAlso, while I tend to agree with Dan and John about hearing small tidbits about the movie before you watch it and how it might help you appreciate it more, if you are someone that leans towards camera and the like, knowing about the digital vs. film part might pull you out of the story. One might, oh I dunno, spend the first half an hour waiting to see if you can see the difference in the medium change. If you can, try to forget and watch the movie.
I will say, however, that the medium change is brilliant and I translate the use of digital to be more along the lines of making you feel uneasy in the political settings. The newspaper settings feel normal and real, because film grain is something we're used to seeing. The digital is cold and detached. Rigid. I still can't figure out what medium they used in locations outside of the newspaper and the gov't but still contained characters from both sides.