Review of Charlie Wilson's War (2007) by Jay L — 22 Jan 2012

"Ladies and gentleman, Congressman Charles Wilson...".

The true story of congressman Charles Wilson and his involvement in the largest ever covert CIA operation ever during the midst and against the back drop of the Russian invasion of Afghanistan in the mid 80's is a truly awesome story. All fact and no fiction, except for the usual Hollywood exaggeration, Charlie Wilson's War is a big-screen adaptation of the famous non-fiction book. Director Mike Nichols (Wit, Closer) collaborated with the iconic screenwriter Aaron Sorkin to bring this stunning story to the big screen. It's a well-crafted and cerebral look into politics and how they affect other parts of the world both positive and negative. Other than being searingly intelligent, Charlie Wilson's War is absolutely hysterical , the 70's was an odd decade, and this story could be one of the strangest and funniest to hit the media during the entire decade. I loved it from beginning to end, Aaron Sorkin is quickly becoming one of the elite screenwriters of our time, his screenplay in this film is nothing short of brilliant. it's a full-throttle, no holds barred covert story that left me speechless. This guy loved to party and was a complete natural at political strategies. A great movie all the way around.

Tom Hanks is brilliant as the congressman himself. A perfect fit for a man with enough flaws to make an inmate seem like an angel. Phillip Seymour-Hoffman is spectacular and I quickly becoming one the games elite all-around actors. Everytime I see this guy he puts everything into it. A true talent whom keeps getting better and better in every film that he does. Julia Roberts is excellent as well. The entire cast was handpicked an for a good reason, the acting in this film is phenomenal the entire way.