Review of Charlie Wilson's War (2007) by Anthony M — 13 Jun 2010

Charlie Wilson's War comedy drama film based around a U.S. congressman who fought to help supply Afghanistan with weapons when a Russian invasion was imminent. The film is a biographical look at this quirky, funny man who is actually not quite like anyone in politics I've seen before.

With an all-star cast compromising of Tom Hanks, Julia Roberts, Philip Seymour Hoffman and Amy Adams. The film gives a serious issue with some great humour and subtle comedy which is my personal favourite. Giving us a great mix of jokes from social commentary to awkward situations and even some sex jokes! Tom Hanks is completely brilliant as usual as congressman Wilson. Hanks is a man with a rare talent, everytime he is on the screen in any film it literally lights up and in my opinion, delivers some of the best performances ever. Julia Roberts also plays her role quite well, I do think she's a slightly overrated actress but she was enjoyable through-out the film. My personal favourite performance of the film was Philip Seymour Hoffman, who as C.I.A operative Gust Avrakotos deals so much subtle and witty humour that I was laughing out loud for most of his screen duration. His line delivery was brilliant, obviously the signs of a well written script and his performance with co-star Hanks was outstanding, both felt and looked really comfortable and offered us up some great dialogue.

Mike Nichols directed this film and it definitely suits his filming steal, its Hollywood but enjoyable Hollywood. He made films like Closer (which I loved) and obviously The Graduate. And think he did a great job with some stylish and prominent direction which really captivated the humour as well as the serious issue at hand.

I do have a problem with this film however and one that means I am giving this film only a 60 and not a 70 and that it feels pro-war. Through-out the film, I knew of the situation but frankly, I did feel like it was pushing war as a way forward rather than an alternative. Obviously, this comes down to the way events have played out but when you look at films such as Full Metal Jacket or All Quiet On The Western Front, these classic anti-war films take a stance and one which almost glamorised fighting especially when people were celebrating the deaths of the Russians.

Overall, an enjoyable film with some brilliant performances and amazingly crisp and well delivered dialogue. Definitely worth a watch for Hoffman and Hanks!