Review - Argo

Here is something I never thought I’d say – Ben Affleck is becoming one of the best directors in Hollywood. In his latest film Argo, a film which plays with rules of a CIA thriller, Hollywood satire and heist film is a tension filled ride with more than a few laughs.

The plot –

In 1979, the American embassy in Iran was invaded by Iranian revolutionaries and several Americans are taken hostage. However, six manage to escape to the official residence of the Canadian Ambassador and the CIA is eventually ordered to get them out of the country. With few options, exfiltration expert Tony Mendez devises a daring plan: to create a phony Canadian film project looking to shoot in Iran and smuggle the Americans out as its production crew.



Affleck acts quite well in this, as he lends Tony Mendez a world weary view, yet without ever being jaded by it. The rest of the Bryan Cranston, Clea Duvall, Victor Gabar, Tate Donovan, Rory Cochrane,  and anyone else I neglected to mention are all excellent. Taking the material and acting their socks off. However, the two actors that made the film for me – Alan Arkin and John Goodman. Starring as John Chambers and Lester Siegel the two movie guru’s bought on board by the CIA, are so enjoyable to watch together, you wish they had even more screen time.

Now, try to blend in....

Affleck’s directing is really smooth and the opening scenes are excellent, really setting the mood for the film whilst the lighter moments are handled just as deftly.  

Yes sure the film is based on a true declassified CIA operation but the writers and director have certainly taken some liberties with the story to ratchet up the tension but if that is your main quibble with the film then really why are you watching any films at all?

A stellar job from Affleck and company, I actually can’t wait until Affleck’s next film as a director.